Pest Scouts

We're Costa. Australia's leading grower, packer and marketer of premium quality fresh fruit and vegetables. On the land, in distribution centres, and out on the roads – Costa people work hard to bring the freshest produce to tables across Australia. But joining our team is about more than just hard work. It's about picking a meaningful, sustainable job that's good for you, and for Australia.

Our Costa farms based in Emerald Qld, is the largest citrus grower in northern Australia. Currently we have 1,474 hectares of planted citrus crops, and 240 planted hectares of table grapes, and will be adding another 210 hectares at its Conaghan Farm.

With full ownership of our farms, we retain control of the entire growing and distribution process and can confidently deliver the freshest, highest standards. The Costa team provides employment for more than 800+ people from many diverse backgrounds in various types of jobs across a range of broad and specialised fields.

People are the heart of Costa. Our employees enjoy some of the best benefits and conditions in the industry. From competitive pay to health, wellbeing, and further learning and development opportunities. No matter the role, you'll always benefit from an environment that encourages and supports you to thrive, grow and connect.

What's in it for you?

• Learning & Development: We're all about ongoing opportunities for growth and development, from honing your skills to career progression.
• Career Takeoff: We're not just a job - genuine career progression opportunities await those ready to soar.
• Site Perks: Regular social activities on site, cultural diversity embraced and celebrated each month, reward and recognition for employees consistently kicking goals & overall good vibes across the farm.

About the role

The Pest Scout is responsible for the execution of the pest monitoring program on Costas' Emerald farms. Early and accurate identification of pest and disease is essential to prevent loss of quality and downgrade at packing. Duties will include:

• Monitor insect pests, diseases and beneficial insects on citrus;
• Release beneficial insects;
• Set and monitor fruit fly traps and bait stations;
• Set out MATS for fruit fly;
• Record levels of pest and beneficial insects on field sheets and report field observations to the IPM Coordinator/agronomist to enable the most appropriate control measures to be determined
• Maintain pest threshold spreadsheet.
• Biological Control (Aphytis / lacewings / Cryptolaemus); predatory mite victoriensis;
• Data collection for field research trials and crop load assessments;
• Ensure pest and disease monitoring program carried out within timeframe; and
• Implement and maintain strategies in the orchard of industry quality standards, the Fruit Fly Protocol.

About You

• Horticulture Diploma or Cert III in horticulture or entomology;
• 'ChemCert' Chemical Handling Certificate;
• Trade Skills;
• Ability to hold a current Queensland 'C' Class drivers' licence
• Understand the fundamentals of pest biology and crop health;
• Have a working knowledge of the monitoring tools and predictive equipment available;
• Planning Skills;
• Ability to balance & handle multiple projects;
• Ability to work independently and also as part of a team;
• Build strong relationships and credibility at all levels of the business;

Eligibility Requirements:

Due to the training requirements for these positions, applicants must hold one of the following valid work rights in Australia:

Australian Citizenship

Australian Permanent Residency

New Zealand Citizenship with full working rights

Visa holders with unrestricted work rights (e.g., Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, Permanent Entry (PEV) visa, Partner visa, or other long-term work visas)

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept applications from:

Working Holiday Visa holders

Student Visa holders

Other temporary visas with work restrictions

If you see yourself living and working for Costa in Emerald, then please apply through our website with your current resume and a cover letter. We look forward to hearing from you.