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

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists; Hereford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists is seeking an Irrigation Operator in Hereford to support raspberry and blueberry crops with irrigation and fertigation systems.

You will monitor water quality, carry out tests, and maintain equipment while coordinating with the Irrigation Manager and farm team throughout the growing season.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of irrigation systems experience on a fruit or arable farm.
• Attention to detail with ability to monitor water quality and follow irrigation programmes.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office.
• Organisational and planning skills with ability to work independently.
• Practical approach to problem solving and equipment maintenance.
• Good communication and ability to work as part of a wider team.
• Full, clean UK driving licence; flexibility to work weekends and overtime during main growing season (Mar–Oct).
• NVQ Level 2 or Scottish NVQ Level 2 or equivalent qualification.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and manage irrigation across raspberry and blueberry crops.
• Carry out regular water testing and monitor water quality.
• Check fertigation programmes and assess effectiveness.
• Install, operate and maintain irrigation equipment and systems.
• Identify faults and perform basic maintenance.
• Collaborate with Irrigation Manager and farm team as crop needs change.

Skills

Irrigation systems experience

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office

Organisational skills

Problem solving

Communication

Driving licence

Weekend/overtime availability

Education

NVQ Level 2

Tools

Microsoft Office

Water testing equipment

Job description

Employer:

Agricultural Recruitment Specialists

Location:

Hereford, Midlands, HR

Pay:

£28,000 to £33,000 per year,

Contract Type:

Permanent

Hours:

Full time

Disability Confident:

No

Closing Date:

02/12/2026

About this job

• 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.

About Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Agricultural Recruitment Specialists is a market-leading, specialist recruitment partner connecting top talent with leading organisations across the agriculture, farming, food and fresh produce, horticulture, environmental, and rural sectors.

Why Work With Us?

With deep industry knowledge and an extensive global network, we are uniquely positioned to connect high-calibre professionals with forward-thinking organisations.

Our consultative approach ensures we deliver not just candidates, but long-term value.

Connecting outstanding talent with leading organisations worldwide.