Technical & Quality Leading Hand

Craigmore Sustainables; Ongaonga; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Craigmore Sustainables is seeking an hands-on Orchard Operations Supervisor at the Springhill East Orchard in Ongaonga, Hawke's Bay. You will lead daily operations, supervise teams, and ensure tasks are completed to high standards of quality, safety and efficiency.

You will apply knowledge of apple growing, mentor staff, maintain records, and support research projects, pest and disease programs, and fruit quality optimisation as part of the Technical & Quality and Orchard Management team.

Qualifications

• Confident communicator able to train, motivate and support staff.
• Experience supervising and leading a team.
• Good at planning, job sheets, and keeping accurate records.
• Knowledge of apple growing and tree care.
• Comfortable using orchard machinery and tools.
• Problem solving mindset and ability to work under pressure.
• Familiar with Pip fruit disease best practice and control methods.
• Strong focus on health and safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise daily orchard operations to ensure quality, safety and efficiency.
• Support Technical & Quality and Orchard Management teams on apple growing, maturity management, pest and disease programs, and fruit quality optimisation.

Skills

Confident communicator

Team supervision

Planning & records

Apple growing knowledge

Orchard machinery use

Problem solving

Pip fruit disease knowledge

Health & safety focus

Education

Horticulture Level 4 (advantage)

Job description

About the role

In this role, you will support the Technical & Quality and Orchard Management team with all technical and quality aspects of apple growing — from fruit production and maturity management to research projects, pest and disease programs, and fruit quality optimisation. You’ll also take a lead role in daily orchard operations, supervising and training teams to ensure tasks are completed to a high standard of quality, safety, and efficiency.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who loves the outdoors, has a passion for growing premium fruit, and enjoys mentoring others in a team environment.

About the team

Based at our Springhill East Orchard in Ongaonga, you will be joining a diverse and supportive team who are passionate about the work they do. Springhill East Orchard is part of the wider Apples team which sits within Craigmore’s Horticulture sector. We have several apples orchards located across Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti, and are continuing to expand our operations.

About you

What you will bring to the role:

• Confident communicator who can train, motivate and support staff
• Experience supervising and leading a team
• Good with planning, job sheets, and keeping accurate records
• Knowledge of apple growing and tree care
• Comfortable using orchard machinery and tools
• Problem solving mindset and ability to work well under pressure
• Familiar with Pip fruit and disease best practice, identification and control methods
• Strong focus on health and safety
• Horticulture Level 4 qualification is an advantage but not essential

About Craigmore

Craigmore Sustainables is a purpose-led business operating farms, orchards, vineyards and forests across New Zealand. Every day, our people work together to produce premium food and fibre while building sustainable businesses. From sustainable land management to supporting rural communities, we are continually improving the way we work. We invest in great people, practical innovation and strong partnerships that are helping to shape the future of New Zealand's primary industries. Learn more about us at: www.craigmore.com