Irrigation Operator - Herefordshire - £28,000-£33,000

AgriRS; Hereford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Ltd is seeking an Irrigation Operator in Herefordshire to support irrigation and fertigation across raspberry and blueberry crops. Reporting to the Irrigation Manager, you will ensure systems operate effectively, providing water and nutrients during the growing season.

This hands-on role suits someone with farm irrigation experience, who is organised, practical and attentive to detail.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year irrigation experience on a fruit or arable farm.
• NVQ Level 2 (or Scottish NVQ Level 2) or equivalent required.
• Right to work in the UK or valid visa.
• Full, clean UK driving licence.
• Practical problem solving and team communication.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and manage irrigation across crops, following watering schedules.
• Carry out regular water testing and monitor water quality.
• Check fertigation programmes and assess effectiveness.
• Install, operate and maintain irrigation equipment.
• Identify faults and perform basic maintenance.
• Collaborate with Irrigation Manager and farm team throughout the season.

Skills

Irrigation systems

Computer skills

Driving licence

Teamwork

Organisational skills

Education

NVQ Level 2 or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Irrigation Operator

Irrigation Operator- Herefordshire - £28,000-£33,000

The Job:

An established soft fruit producer in Herefordshire is looking for an Irrigation Operator to support the growing and maintenance of its raspberry and blueberry crops. Reporting to the Irrigation Manager, you will help ensure irrigation and fertigation systems are operating effectively, providing crops with the water and nutrients they need throughout the growing season. This is a hands on role suited to someone with previous farm irrigation experience who is organised, practical and pays close attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and manage irrigation across raspberry and blueberry crops, ensuring watering schedules are followed accurately
• Carry out regular water testing and monitor water quality
• Check fertigation programmes and assess their effectiveness
• Install, operate and maintain irrigation equipment and systems
• Identify faults or issues and carry out basic maintenance where required
• Work closely with the Irrigation Manager and wider farm team to meet changing crop requirements throughout the season

The Company:

The business specialises in commercial soft fruit production, growing raspberries and blueberries under polytunnels. It offers the opportunity to work within a specialist growing operation and develop further technical knowledge of irrigation and crop production.

The Candidate:

• At least one year's experience working with irrigation systems on a fruit or arable farm
• Good attention to detail, with the ability to monitor water quality and follow irrigation programmes accurately
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office
• Good organisational and planning skills, with the ability to manage tasks independently
• A practical approach to problem solving and equipment maintenance
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a wider team
• Full, clean UK driving licence and flexibility to work weekends and overtime during the main growing season (March to October)

The Package:

• Salary of £28,000–£33,000 per annum, depending on experience
• Full-time position within a specialist soft fruit production business
• Opportunity to develop technical skills and experience in commercial fruit production
• Hands-on responsibility for supporting crop performance and irrigation efficiency

Please note: Accommodation is not available with this position.

Candidate Requirements

All applicants must hold a minimum of an NVQ Level 2, Scottish NVQ Level 2, or an equivalent qualification relevant to the role applied for. Candidates must also have the legal right to work in the UK or hold a valid visa permitting employment.