Irrigation Assistant - Kinglake Farms

ELMTREE SERVICES PTY LTD; Kinglake; On-site; AUD 68,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

Kinglake Farms Pty Ltd in Victoria is seeking a full-time Irrigation Assistant to support our horticulture operations, specialising in blueberries for domestic distribution. You will assist in irrigation planning, monitor soil moisture and weather, and help maintain pumping systems.

This role requires practical farm experience, ability to operate tractors and pumps, and knowledge of agricultural production.

Qualifications

• Experience in agriculture/ horticulture preferred.
• Knowledge of irrigation principles is advantageous.
• Ability to operate farm equipment and pumps.

Responsibilities

• Assist in determining water flow rates, pressures and hydraulic parameters.
• Help implement irrigation programs and soil moisture management.
• Monitor soil and weather to schedule irrigation cycles.
• Support selection, operation and maintenance of pumping systems.
• Interpret irrigation layouts to ensure proper function of lines, emitters and valves.
• Assist in installation, testing and adjustment of irrigation systems (drip/micro-sprinklers).
• Perform routine inspections, cleaning and minor repairs on equipment.

Skills

Farm work experience

Machinery operation

Agricultural production knowledge

Communication skills

Teamwork and independence

Education

AQF Cert II or equivalent + 1 year post-qualification experience

2+ years relevant experience may substitute qualifications

Job description

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

Kinglake Farms Pty Ltd is a large family-run horticulture business with operations in Kinglake VIC and Rosewood NSW. The company specialises in growing and packing premium blueberries for domestic distribution to the national supermarkets. The business is seeking a full-time qualified Irrigation Assistant. The salary offered is $79,423 per annum plus superannuation. The Irrigation Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Assist in determining water flow rates, pressure requirements, and other hydraulic parameters to ensure efficient irrigation across orchards.
• Help implement irrigation programs to maintain optimal soil moisture and support healthy crop growth throughout the season.
• Monitor soil and weather conditions to assist in scheduling irrigation cycles.
• Support the selection, operation, and maintenance of pumping systems.
• Interpret and apply irrigation layouts and designs to ensure the correct function of irrigation lines, emitters, and valves.
• Assist in the installation, testing, and adjustment of irrigation systems, including drip and micro-sprinkler setups.
• Monitor and maintain irrigation equipment, performing routine inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs.

Qualifications and Experience

The Irrigation Assistant is required to have the following qualifications and experience:

• A relevant AQF Cert II or equivalent AND 1 year (20+ hours per week) relevant post-qualifications experience; OR
• 2 years (38+ hours per week) of relevant experience may substitute formal qualifications.

Qualities and Skills

The Irrigation Assistant will have the following qualities and skills:

• Practical experience as a farm worker within the agriculture, horticulture or forestry industry is highly desirable.
• Ability to operate a wide range of farm and plant machinery, including tractors and pumps.
• Knowledge and experience of agricultural production principles.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.