Orchard Maintenance and machinery operators

Orchard Maintenance and Machinery Operators

Number of positions available: 2

Location: Bay of Plenty

Payrate: $32/hr

Minimum hours of work: 30

Key requirements:

minimum level 4 in horticulture or higher,

or 2-3 years of relevant experience

We are seeking to employ Orchard machinery operators for our orchards, which we own and operate in Te Puke. We have a highly skilled team and are looking to replace staff who will soon be moving to other roles.

You will report to the Orchard Manager and assist in all Orchard operations, including machinery work, vine maintenance, general orchard maintenance and harvest.

To be considered for this role, you will either have a relevant certificate (at least NZ level 4 in horticulture) or 2 to 3 years of relevant experience. We are looking for the right person who has the following experience and qualifications:

-        A good understanding of mechanical and machinery operations (able to drive tractors/harvesters, self-propelled orchard sprayers, heavy orcharding/farming equipment).

-        Performing inspections of tractors and attachments and ensuring they are well maintained.

-        Some knowledge of fencing and irrigation.

-        Experience with tractor-attached forks, levelling bars, augers, bin trailers as required during the season.

-        Flexibility to work long hours (which includes weekends and night shift during frost season and harvest). Must be experienced with frost machines and their operations.

-        Experience with operating a fertiliser spreader and handling agrichemicals.

-        Experience with all aspects of kiwifruit orcharding, including planting, pruning, thinning, and girdling.

-        Excellent time management and organisational skills. Must be able to work unsupervised.

-        Growsafe certificate would be an advantage.

-        Must have a clean Class 1 driver's licence, Class 2 would be an advantage.