Orchard Operations Lead - Harvest & QA

Blackbook Executive Pty; Swan Hill; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackbook Executive Pty is seeking an experienced Assistant Farm Manager to join our Swan Hill team. The role leads a high-performing crew and supports safe, efficient day-to-day farming operations across orchards and perennial crops.

You will implement weekly and annual horticultural programs, monitor budgets and resources, and collaborate with the Farm Manager to optimise crop growth, productivity and quality. Strong safety culture is essential.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years’ experience in farming operations, preferably in orchards or perennial horticulture.
• Knowledge of QA/QC systems and procedures.
• Good literacy, numeracy and record-keeping abilities.
• Competent in safe operation of agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Current Australian Driver Licence.

Responsibilities

• Support safe, day-to-day farm operations under supervision of the Farm Manager.
• Lead and manage a high-performing team during peak periods, including harvest.
• Implement weekly and annual horticultural programs to maximise crop growth and production.
• Monitor farm inputs, resources and activities against approved budgets and procedures.
• Coordinate irrigation, drainage, and machinery maintenance with relevant managers.
• Assess machinery operators for competency and training compliance.
• Support planning, coordination, and execution of harvest activities.
• Act in the Farm Manager’s role during periods of leave, including supervision of farm staff.

Skills

Team leadership

Farming operations

Quality Assurance

Quality Control

Safety compliance

Job description

Blackbook Executive Pty is seeking an experienced Assistant Farm Manager to join our Swan Hill team. The role leads a high-performing crew and supports safe, efficient day-to-day farming operations across orchards and perennial crops.

You will implement weekly and annual horticultural programs, monitor budgets and resources, and collaborate with the Farm Manager to optimise crop growth, productivity and quality. Strong safety culture is essential.