Orchard Team Leader - Horticulture

Monavale Blueberries; Cambridge; On-site; NZD 34,440 - 52,348; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounted meals

Staff cafe discount

Job summary

Monavale Blueberries in Cambridge, New Zealand, is seeking an experienced Orchard Team Leader on a full-time, permanent basis. You will oversee pest monitoring, crop health, irrigation, pruning, and daily team leadership to ensure healthy plants and high-quality harvests.

Applicants should have at least 2 years in horticulture, a horticulture qualification preferred, a valid driver’s licence (forklift licence preferred). Flexible hours and a commitment to organic growing are valued.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years in a horticultural role in New Zealand.
• A qualification in Horticulture is highly preferred.
• You must hold a current Full Driver’s Licence; Forklift Licence is preferred.
• Strong time management skills, the ability to work independently, and the leadership to coordinate seasonal staff.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a solutions-focused approach.
• Genuine interest in and commitment to organic growing principles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pest and disease monitoring, identification, and integrated management strategies.
• Apply fertiliser, crop nutrition and protective treatments.
• Monitor crop health and growth and implement horticultural practices and quality measures.
• Coordinate orchard activities with the management team, plan resources and seasonal changes.
• Manage water systems and irrigation, perform repairs and maintenance.
• Lead day-to-day maintenance such as pruning, weed and scrub control.
• Assist planting activities: mulching, holes, and planting.
• Operate machinery safely and maintain Health & Safety standards.
• Maintain detailed records of orchard activities and timesheets.
• Coordinate harvest and packing, including logistics and grading.

Skills

Leadership

Time management

Problem solving

Independent worker

Education

Horticulture qualification

Job description

Join our team at Monavale Blueberries in Cambridge.

Are you an experienced horticulturalist with a passion for organic growing? Monavale Blueberries is seeking a skilled and proactive Orchard Team Leader to join us on a full-time, permanent basis.

In this role, you will be at the heart of our operations, ensuring the health of our plants and the quality of our harvests through meticulous care and efficient management. We are looking for someone who thrives in a hands‑on environment and possesses the leadership skills to guide our seasonal teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee pest and disease monitoring, identification, and integrated management strategies
• The application of fertiliser, crop nutrition and protective treatments
• Monitoring crop health and growth, and implementing appropriate horticultural practices and quality as directed
• Liaising with the orchard management team to plan for orchard activities, resource requirements, and seasonal changes
• Manage water systems to ensure optimal hydration throughout the growth cycle and perform irrigation repairs
• Lead day‑to‑day maintenance, including pruning, weed/scrub management
• Planting: Laying mulch, punching holes, and planting
• Operations & Safety: Safely operate machinery (tractors, mowers, quad bikes, and forklifts), manage daily work schedules, and maintain rigorous Health & Safety standards, including reporting and risk mitigation
• Maintaining detailed records of orchard activities and timesheets
• Harvest & Packing: Coordinate the collection and lifting of berries, support pickers with logistics, and supervise grading and packing processes

What We Are Looking For

• New Zealand resident or citizen with at least 2 years in a similar horticultural role. You will have proven expertise in crop checks, spraying, fertilising, and the full range of orchard maintenance tasks
• A qualification in Horticulture is highly preferred
• You must hold a current Full Driver’s Licence. A Forklift Licence is preferred.
• Strong time management skills, the ability to work independently, and the confidence to lead and coordinate seasonal staff
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills and a solutions‑focused approach
• A genuine interest in and commitment to organic growing principles is essential to our mission.
• You must be able to adapt to flexible working hours as required.

Why Join Us?

Monavale Blueberries offers long‑term career paths for those passionate about organic horticulture, and sustainability. Our roles provide opportunities for growth, innovation, and meaningful impact within a supportive, values‑driven workplace.

In return for your dedication, you will receive a competitive hourly rate and work in a clean, chemical‑free environment alongside a team of friendly colleagues. Staff Benefits include discounted rates on meals and products at our orchard cafe.

Location: Monavale Blueberries, Cambridge

Closing Date: 02 August 2026

Monavale Blueberries is an equal opportunity employer committed to sustainable farming practices.