Horticulture Growers

Zerella Fresh is one of Australia’s largest growers and packers of Carrots, Onions and Potatoes supplying Australia’s leading supermarket chains plus independents and exports.

We are currently seeking experienced and motivated Horticulture Growers to join our team on a full-time permanent basis at our Virginia site located in the South Australia.

Reporting to the Farm Department Manager, the Horticulture Grower will carry out varied duties related to the planning the planting, cultivation, and harvesting of crops.

A salary of $60,000 - $90,000 will be available, based on applicable qualifications and experience.

**Duties include**:

- In conjunction with the Farm Manager and Senior Agronomist, determine the type and amount of crop to be grown, in line with anticipated market and weather conditions, to ensure optimal crop yields.
- Plan and coordinate the production of crops from soil preparation to harvest, considering environmental and market factors.
- Oversee the selection and planting of seeds and maintain optimal growing conditions through weeding, thinning, and pruning crops.
- Organise and conduct farming operations, such as collecting, storing, grading, and packaging produce, and organising the sale, purchase, and dispatch of produce.
- Supervise field rotations, planting, and harvesting programs in line with production schedules.
- Directing and overseeing general farming activities such as fertilising, and pest and weed control.
- Identification of diseases, pests and weeds in the crops and take appropriate action.
- Oversee the inspection, grading, sorting, storage, and post-harvest treatment of harvested products.
- Recognition of defective/seconds product (including seasonal influences).
- Perform basic equipment maintenance and cleaning, maintain farm buildings, fences, equipment, and water supply systems.
- Maintaining and evaluating records of farming activities, monitoring market activity, and planning crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements and market demand.
- Report any production, quality, or safety problems/concerns to your line manager.
- Oversee the management and training of all allocated employees and / or contractors.
- All other requirements as directed to achieve business objectives.

**Requirements**:

- Certificate III or IV level qualification in agriculture or relevant field plus at least 2 years of relevant experience, OR at least 3-5 years of relevant experience.
- Experience in a horticultural operations / farm management.
- Experience in the management of potato, carrot, and onion crops (desirable).
- Basic mechanical knowledge and experience working with large scale agricultural machinery.
- Unrestricted Class C Drivers Licence (essential).
- Chemical User Certificate Accreditation (essential).
- Forklift license (essential).
- HC license (essential).
- Cultural adaptability and a willingness to work with a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Ability and willingness to undertake manual, and sometimes physical work.
- Ability and willingness to work outdoors, in all kinds of weather conditions.
- A willingness to be hands on and participate in a broad range of duties, a strong work ethic is essential.
- Respect for others and pride in team’s performance.
- Commitment to ongoing learning.
- Commitment to delivering team goals and the drive to be successful.

Flexible work hours are required for this role, in line with seasonal production requirements.

Pay: $60,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift

Work Authorisation:

- Australia (preferred)

Work Location: In person