Orchard Supervisor

Armours Apples Pty Ltd; Warragul; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Armours Apples Pty Ltd in Warragul, Victoria, is seeking an experienced Orchard Supervisor to lead day-to-day orchard operations and support the Orchard Manager.

You will oversee pruning, pest and disease management, irrigation, harvest planning, record keeping and safety compliance while developing staff and maintaining productivity.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years in a supervisory role within commercial horticulture or agriculture.
• Knowledge of fruit growing practices and pest/disease management is preferred.
• Experience in workforce management and staff development is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Supervise orchard staff to ensure efficient, year-round operations.
• Assist Orchard Manager with pruning, thinning, pest/disease management, and irrigation scheduling.
• Monitor crop health and implement horticultural practices to maximise yield and quality.
• Conduct regular tree and soil inspections and recommend interventions.
• Organise harvest operations, including workforce scheduling and fruit handling protocols.
• Maintain records of orchard operations, pesticide applications, labour hours and production data.
• Ensure health and safety regulations are followed and safe work practices implemented.
• Assist with staff training and development in horticultural techniques and procedures.
• Operate and maintain orchard equipment and arrange maintenance as needed.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Horticulture knowledge

Team management

Health and safety compliance

Data entry and reporting

Equipment operation

Communication skills

Problem solving

Outdoor work

Driver's licence

Education

Agriculture/Horticulture qualification

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

Armours Apples Pty Ltd is seeking an experienced Orchard Supervisor to join our team in Warragul, VIC 3820. This is a full-time position that offers an excellent opportunity to lead and support our Orchard Manager with operations within our horticulture business. As Orchard Supervisor, you will oversee the day-to-day supervision of our apple orchards, ensuring optimal productivity, quality and compliance with industry standards. This role is pivotal to maintaining the health and performance of our orchards and directly impacts the success of our farming operations.

What you'll be doing

• Supervising and coordinating the activities of orchard staff to ensure efficient and effective operations throughout the year
• Assisting the Orchard Manager with orchard maintenance tasks including pruning, thinning, pest and disease management, and irrigation scheduling
• Monitoring crop health and implementing appropriate horticultural practices to maximise yield and fruit quality
• Conducting regular inspections of trees and soil conditions, and recommending interventions as required
• Assisting to organise and oversee harvest operations, including workforce scheduling and fruit handling protocols
• Maintaining accurate records of orchard operations, pesticide applications, labour hours and production data
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and implementing safe work practices across all orchard activities
• Assisting Orchard Manager with training and developing orchard staff in best practice horticultural techniques and company procedures
• Operating and maintaining orchard equipment, and identifying maintenance or replacement needs

What we're looking for

• Proven experience working in commercial horticulture or agriculture, with at least 3–5 years in a supervisory role
• Preferred, knowledge of fruit growing practices, pest and disease management, and horticultural techniques
• Preferred, experience in workforce management, including the ability to motivate and develop team members
• Sound understanding of health and safety regulations relevant to agricultural operations
• Proficiency with farm management systems and record-keeping, including experience with data entry and reporting
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to operate and maintain agricultural equipment
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with management and staff
• Problem-solving capabilities and the flexibility to respond to changing seasonal demands
• Physical fitness and the willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• A valid driver's licence is essential for this role (manual licence preferred)
• Relevant qualifications in agriculture, horticulture or a related field are highly desirable

What we offer

Armours Apples Pty Ltd is committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits and opportunities. We offer competitive remuneration commensurate with experience, a supportive workplace culture, and opportunities for professional development and career progression within the farming and horticulture sector. We recognise the importance of work-life balance and strive to create an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and supported. If you require any adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process, we encourage you to speak with us.

About us

Armours Apples Pty Ltd is a dedicated horticulture business specialising in apple production in the Gippsland region of Victoria. We are committed to sustainable farming practices and producing high-quality fruit for local and broader markets. With a focus on operational excellence, environmental stewardship and employee wellbeing, we have established ourselves as a respected participant in the Australian horticulture industry. Our team is passionate about delivering quality produce whilst maintaining strong relationships with our community and stakeholders.