Company: Topline Horticulture Limited
Location: Bay of Plenty
Job Type: Full‑time
Pay Rate: From $33- $35 per hour
Hours: Minimum 35-40 hours per week
About the Company
We are a Contracting company providing labour solutions to the Orchards. We are now looking an Operation Leading Hand x 2 to lead our labourer team while working in the orchards of our contractors. We are committed to producing high‑quality fruit through sustainable growing practices, strong team leadership, and efficient orchard management of our client. Our team works across all seasonal cycles — pruning, thinning, training, harvest, and post‑harvest — to ensure consistent productivity and fruit quality.
We value teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement, and we are looking for a reliable and experienced Operation Leading Hand to join our team.
Position Overview
The Operation Leading Hand will be responsible for coordinating and supervising seasonal orchard teams, overseeing daily crop production activities, operating machinery, and ensuring that all orchard tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. This role involves hands‑on work combined with leadership responsibilities across multiple outdoor blocks.
Key Responsibilities
Crop Production & Orchard Operations
- Oversee daily orchard tasks including planting, pruning, thinning, training, tying, and canopy management.
- Monitor crop health, identify pests/diseases, and report issues promptly.
- Assist with irrigation management, including checking lines, valves, and water flow.
- Coordinate and support harvest teams to ensure fruit is picked safely and to quality standards.
- Maintain orchard infrastructure such as trellis systems, posts, wires, and irrigation components.
Team Leadership & Supervision
- Supervise over 50 seasonal workers during peak periods.
- Allocate daily tasks, monitor performance, and ensure work is completed efficiently.
- Train new staff in safe work practices, pruning techniques, thinning methods, and harvest procedures.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety requirements at all times.
Machinery & Equipment
- Operate orchard machinery including tractors, sprayers, quad bikes, and pruning platforms.
- Conduct basic maintenance checks and report any mechanical issues.
- Ensure safe operation of all machinery by staff under supervision.
Quality Control & Reporting
- Monitor fruit quality during growing and harvest seasons.
- Record production data, block performance, and daily work logs.
- Report progress, issues, and crop conditions to the Orchard Manager.
Key Skills & Qualifications
- Either a minimum of 2 years’ experience in any field however experience in horticulture, orchard work, or outdoor crop production is a plus OR an any tertiary level Level 4 qualification or higher qualification in case of no experience(overseas equivalent accepted).
- Ability to operate orchard machinery safely and confidently.
- Understanding of pruning, thinning, training, and harvest processes in plus
- Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Knowledge of health & safety practices in horticulture.
Why Join Us?
- Permanent full‑time role with stable hours.
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for skill development.
- Work across large, well‑managed orchard blocks with modern equipment.
- Competitive pay and long‑term career growth in horticulture.
How to Apply
Apply now with your CV and contact details.