Production Horticulturist

AQMIND PTY LTD; Coffs Harbour; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

THE TRUSTEE FOR JHAJ FAMILY TRUST is seeking a Production Horticulturist to plan and execute crop production for blueberry and banana crops. The role focuses on growing healthy plants, implementing disease management, and assisting with harvest and post-harvest tasks in a hands-on farming environment.

Ideal candidates have practical on-farm experience, a solid understanding of fruit production systems, and a passion for sustainable horticulture.

Qualifications

• AQF Certificate IV or higher.
• 2-3 years of experience in related field.
• Practical on-farm experience in fruit production.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimise blueberry and banana crop production, managing plant health, irrigation, soil conditions and daily farm operations.
• Train, supervise and monitor farm workers to follow procedures.
• Prepare work programs and assess completed tasks for quality and efficiency.
• Ensure correct handling and application of inputs such as fertilisers and plant stock.
• Operate tractors and farm machinery safely and maintain equipment.
• Coordinate harvesting activities and soil treatment as required.
• Monitor pests, diseases and nutrient deficiencies and report findings.

Skills

Crop production

Irrigation management

Pest & disease management

Tractor operation

Supervision

Education

AQF Certificate IV or Higher

Tools

Farming machinery

Irrigation systems

Job description

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

Our client, THE TRUSTEE FOR JHAJ FAMILY TRUST, operating a commercial blueberry and banana farm, is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Production Horticulturist to support the planning and execution of crop production activities. This role focuses on optimising plant growth, monitoring crop health, implementing integrated pest and disease management strategies, and assisting with harvesting and post-harvest processes for both blueberry and banana crops. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in, practical on-farm experience, and a solid understanding of fruit production systems, this position is well suited to someone passionate about sustainable horticulture and eager to contribute to a dynamic, hands-on farming environment.

Responsibility Oversee and optimise blueberry and banana crop production by managing plant health, irrigation, soil conditions and daily farm operations to achieve high-quality yields and ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards. Duties

• Ensure land preparation, soil conditioning and drainage meet the specific requirements of crop cultivation.
• Train, supervise and monitor farm workers to ensure all tasks are completed in line with established procedures.
• Prepare daily, weekly and monthly work programs to support efficient and coordinated farm operations.
• Assess the quality of completed work and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Ensure availability, correct handling and proper application of inputs such as fertilisers, mulch and plant stock for both crops.
• Oversee the maintenance and safe operation of tractors, implements and other farm machinery.
• Liaise with the Farm Operations Manager, Agronomist and Maintenance Manager to support smooth farm operations.
• Operate tractors and specialised equipment used in blueberry and banana production.
• Identify and report signs of pests, diseases or nutrient deficiencies affecting blueberry and banana crops.
• Operate and monitor pressurised irrigation systems, including drip, micro-sprinkler and other systems relevant to both crops.
• Prepare and apply chemicals for pest, weed and disease control in accordance with safety, compliance and label requirements.
• Coordinate harvesting activities for blueberries and bananas to ensure quality, efficiency and minimal crop damage.
• Assist with soil treatment, fumigation and other pre-planting preparation tasks as required.
• Manage and maintain drainage systems to support optimal plant growth and prevent waterlogging.
• Monitor nursery plants and oversee propagation activities for blueberry and banana plant stock.
• Operate spreading, planting and mulching equipment relevant to both blueberry and banana farming.

Qualification:

• AQF Certificate IV or

Higher

• 2-3 years of experience in related field.

Salary:

• $70,000 - $85,000 plus superannuation

Full Time:

• 38 hours per week