Orchard team Leader- Orchard Maintenance

Monavale Blueberries; Cambridge, Auckland; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff meals discount

Product discounts

Job summary

Monavale Blueberries in Cambridge, NZ is seeking two Orchard Team Leaders for a full-time, permanent role. You will lead day-to-day orchard activities, supervise seasonal staff, and ensure high-quality harvests while upholding safety standards.

The ideal candidate has at least 2 years in horticulture, a horticulture qualification preferred, and a valid Full Driver’s Licence (Forklift Licence desired). Flexible hours and commitment to organic growing are valued.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years in a horticultural role in NZ.
• A horticulture qualification is highly preferred.
• Must hold a valid Full Driver’s Licence; Forklift Licence is preferred.
• Strong leadership and time-management skills; able to coordinate seasonal staff.
• Commitment to organic growing principles and flexible hours.

Responsibilities

• Plan orchard activities with management, allocate resources and adapt to seasonal changes.
• Lead day-to-day maintenance including pruning and weed control.
• Operate and oversee machinery safely and manage daily work schedules.

Skills

Horticulture experience

People leadership

Safety awareness

Education

Horticulture qualification

Job description

Join our team at Monavale Blueberries in CambridgeAre you an experienced horticulturalist with a passion for organic growing? Monavale Blueberries is seeking two skilled and proactive Orchard Team Leaders 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 two individuals who thrives in a hands-on environment and possesses the leadership skills to guide our seasonal teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaising with the orchard management team to plan for orchard activities, resource requirements, and seasonal changes
• Lead day-to-day maintenance, including pruning, weed/scrub management
• 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
• Netting
• Erecting and dissembling tunnels
• Maintaining detailed records of orchard activities and timesheets
• Directing harvest staff to their allocated picking areas, ensuring picking quality is maintained, collecting fresh berries from the field and delivering to the packhouse.

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.