Orchard/ Vinyard Controller

Winners Recruitment; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the agricultural sector is seeking an Orchard/Vineyard Controller to manage a sprawling 300-acre estate in Truro. This role entails overseeing all aspects of orchard, vineyard, and grounds maintenance, ensuring productivity and aesthetics year-round. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in orchard management, proven qualifications, and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Proven orchard and vineyard management experience required.
• General agricultural and horticultural knowledge essential.
• Willing to work flexible hours, including weekends during peak periods.

Responsibilities

• Full responsibility for maintaining orchards, including pest control and nutrient application.
• Manage the upkeep of gardens and grounds, ensuring high standards.
• Oversee animal welfare and supervise farmhands.

Skills

Health and safety regulations

Planning

Problem-solving

Communication

Leadership

Education

Tractor Driver Licence

Spraying Certificates (PA1, PA3, PA6)

Chainsaw Certificate

Horticultural Trailer Licence

Telehandler Ticket

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Title: Orchard/Vineyard Controller

Direct Reports: Farmhands

Location: Truro

Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 per year

Are you an experienced orchard or vineyard professional with a passion for agriculture, horticulture, and grounds maintenance? We are looking for an Orchard/Vineyard Controller to join our dedicated team, overseeing 300 acres of orchards, vineyards, woodlands, grounds, and gardens.

This exciting role offers the opportunity to take responsibility for the care and upkeep of our estate, ensuring it is both productive and visually stunning year-round.

Key Responsibilities

• Orchard Management: Full responsibility for maintaining and renewing orchards, including pest and disease control, storm damage repair, nutrient application, and spray programmes.
• Vineyard Maintenance: Work closely with the Vineyard Manager to uphold the highest standards in vineyard care.
• Grounds and Landscape Maintenance: Manage all garden and groundworks, including mowing, strimming, weed control, hedges, flowerbeds, seasonal planting, and polytunnel upkeep.
• Woodland Management: Assist with woodland care, including felling, replanting, and overall maintenance.
• Animal Welfare: Oversee the welfare of farm animals, ensuring they are fed, checked, and kept in a clean and healthy environment.
• Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintain gates, fences, and tools, ensuring the safety and functionality of the estate.
• Staff Leadership: Supervise and appraise farmhands, providing training and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
• Compliance and Records: Ensure all checklists and relevant paperwork are completed to an acceptable audit standard and submitted on time.

Skills and Qualifications

• Work Experience: Proven orchard and vineyard management experience. General agricultural and horticultural knowledge.
• Qualifications: Tractor Driver Licence, Spraying Certificates (PA1, PA3, PA6), Chainsaw Certificate, Horticultural Trailer Licence, Telehandler Ticket.
• Skills: Strong knowledge of health and safety regulations. Excellent planning and practical problem-solving abilities. Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Personal Qualities: Reliable, responsible, and trustworthy. Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Flexible to meet the demands of the role, including split shifts and weekend work during peak periods.

Remuneration and Hours

• Salary: £35,000 - £40,000 per year (dependent on experience)
• Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility required around spraying and harvest times. Some split shifting Monday to Sunday may be necessary.

If you are a skilled and passionate individual who takes pride in producing well-maintained and productive orchards, vineyards, and grounds, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to