Agricultural Technician

Location: East Somerville, VIC, 3912
Full-Time: Immediate start
Reports to: Manager
Salary range: $76,600 - $80,000
Job Closure date: 05/09/2025

About our client: Our client is a recognised leader in the Australian agricultural sector, specialising in innovative and sustainable farming solutions for the fresh produce industry. With a rich history and a strong focus on research and development, they are at the forefront of advanced horticultural practices. They are dedicated to producing premium-quality, nutritious, and safe plant-based foods through a commitment to scientific excellence, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation that values expertise and is passionate about shaping the future of agriculture.

About the role:
We are seeking a driven Agricultural Technician to join our client's dynamic team. This role is central to their mission of optimising crop production and enhancing product quality. You will be immersed in hands-on fieldwork and analysis, providing the critical data and insights that drive their innovative farming methods. Your work will directly contribute to the development of superior crop varieties and sustainable agricultural protocols, ensuring the delivery of exceptional produce to market.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:
Land & Soil Analysis:
• Conduct comprehensive examinations of farmland, performing detailed analysis of topographical features, soil physical properties, and chemical characteristics to determine optimal land use strategies.
• Diagnose specific soil nutrient deficiencies and imbalances, providing data-driven recommendations for soil amendment and fertilisation programs tailored to high-value specialty crops.
Crop Science & Pathology:
• Identify and monitor pathogenic micro-organisms, harmful insects, invasive weeds, and fungal diseases that threaten crop health and yield.
• Assist in developing and trialling innovative, integrated pest and disease management (IPDM) control methods to protect crops while aligning with sustainable practices.
Research, Data & Process Development:
• Design and execute controlled experiments focused on developing improved planting, fertilising, and harvesting techniques to achieve maximum land utilisation and resource efficiency.
• Collect, collate, and meticulously analyse agronomic data to support research initiatives aimed at enhancing crop genetics, resilience, and overall quality.
• Assist in controlled breeding and cultivation experiments to select and develop improved plant strains with desirable traits such as enhanced flavour, colour, shelf-life, and nutritional value.
Quality Assurance & Production:
• Analyse harvested produce through a variety of methods to set, monitor, and maintain rigorous standards of quality, freshness, and safety from field to packhouse.
• Plan and oversee key aspects of the production cycle, including harvest scheduling and post-harvest processing protocols, to ensure peak product condition.
Grower Support & Advisory:
• Act as a technical resource, arranging the supply of agricultural chemicals, biologics, and other inputs, and providing expert advice to growers on their safe, effective, and compliant application.
• Advise and educate producers on advanced horticultural techniques, crop management strategies, and the implementation of new research findings onto the farm.

Skills and Experience Required:
• A degree or equivalent in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field.
• Proven 3 years full-time experience in a similar hands-on technical role within a high-production horticultural or broadacre cropping environment.
• Strong practical knowledge of soil science, plant nutrition, and crop pathology.
• Experience in collecting scientific data, conducting field trials, and performing basic laboratory analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to identify plant diseases, pests, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous, analytical approach to work.
• Outstanding communication skills with the ability to advise and build strong relationships with growers and team members.
• A current driver’s licence is essential.