Plant Health Scientist

JobSpace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Golden Age NZ Ltd in Auckland seeks an experienced Plant Health Scientist to lead disease research and crop health improvement across farm and greenhouse operations. You will design studies, analyse pathogen data, and develop science-based protection programmes to boost productivity and resilience.

The role requires a Master’s degree in a related field, strong communication of technical findings, and collaboration with farm management.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or equivalent advanced qualification in Plant Pathology, Plant Protection, Agricultural Science or related field.
• Strong knowledge of plant diseases, pathogen identification and disease management.
• Experience in plant health research, laboratory analysis, or related projects.

Responsibilities

• Conduct investigations into plant diseases affecting greenhouse and field production.
• Diagnose health issues via sampling, analysis and data interpretation.
• Develop and implement plant health prevention and management strategies.
• Prepare technical reports and maintain accurate records of plant health programmes.

Skills

Plant pathology

Disease management

Lab analysis

Data interpretation

Scientific communication

Education

Master’s degree or equivalent in Plant Pathology/related field

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Greenhouse techniques

Job description

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Golden Age NZ Ltd is an Auckland-based agricultural enterprise operating its own farming facilities and greenhouse production systems. The company specialises in the cultivation and development of high-quality agricultural products through sustainable farming practices, controlled growing environments, and innovative agricultural technologies.

As part of our continued growth and investment in agricultural innovation, we are establishing enhanced plant health and crop management capabilities to improve production quality, strengthen disease prevention strategies, and support sustainable agricultural development.

We are seeking an experienced Plant Health Scientist to join our team and provide specialist scientific expertise in plant disease management, crop health improvement, and agricultural research. This is a permanent full-time position, and you will be required to work at least 40 hours per week.

The Plant Health Scientist will be responsible for conducting applied scientific research and developing plant health management strategies to support Golden Age NZ Ltd’s farm and greenhouse operations. This role will involve investigating plant diseases, identifying pathogens, analysing crop health issues, and implementing science-based solutions to improve plant productivity, quality, and resilience. The successful candidate will work closely with farm management and production teams to develop sustainable plant protection programmes and enhance agricultural practices.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Disease Research and Diagnosis

• Conduct scientific investigations into plant diseases affecting greenhouse and agricultural production.
• Diagnose plant health issues through observation, sampling, laboratory testing, and scientific analysis.
• Identify plant pathogens, including fungal and other biological agents affecting crop performance.
• Analyse disease patterns, pathogen behaviour, and environmental factors influencing plant health.
• Develop and implement plant disease prevention and management strategies.
• Establish plant health monitoring systems for greenhouse and farm operations.
• Provide scientific recommendations on crop protection and disease control measures.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of plant health programmes and recommend improvements.

Greenhouse and Agricultural Innovation

• Assess plant growth conditions within controlled greenhouse environments.
• Analyse the relationship between environmental conditions, plant development, and disease risks.
• Support the improvement of cultivation practices through scientific research and evidence-based recommendations.
• Research and evaluate innovative agricultural technologies and sustainable farming methods.

Research and Reporting

• Design and conduct agricultural research projects relevant to company production objectives.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret scientific data.
• Prepare technical reports, research documentation, and recommendations.
• Maintain accurate scientific records relating to plant health programmes.

Skills and Experience Required

The successful candidate will have:

• A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent advanced qualification in Plant Pathology, Plant Protection, Agricultural Science, Biological Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of plant diseases, pathogen identification, and disease management strategies.
• Experience in plant health research, laboratory analysis, or agricultural scientific projects.
• Understanding of greenhouse production systems and crop management practices.
• Ability to analyse scientific data and develop practical solutions for agricultural challenges.
• Strong research, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.