Horticulture Grower

A.W. Steicke & Sons is an Australian family-operated agricultural business engaged in horticultural production, including the growing of nuts, fruit and vegetables. We are seeking a suitably qualified and experienced Horticulture Grower to coordinate and carry out crop production activities across our horticultural operations, from soil preparation and planting through to crop maintenance, harvesting and preparation of produce for market.

The Horticulture Grower will plan, coordinate and monitor horticultural crop production activities, taking into account environmental conditions, crop requirements, operational resources and market demand. The role involves maintaining optimal growing conditions, coordinating farming operations, overseeing crop maintenance and pest and weed control, and maintaining accurate production records.

Key duties and responsibilities:

• Plan and coordinate the production and marketing of crops, including nuts, fruit and vegetables, from soil preparation through to harvest, taking into account environmental and market factors.
• Select and plant seeds and seedlings and undertake planting activities, including grafting new varieties onto rootstocks where required.
• Maintain crop production through cultivation, de-budding, pruning and other crop maintenance activities to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Organise and conduct farming operations, including collecting, storing, grading and packaging produce, and coordinating the sale, purchase and dispatch of produce.
• Direct and oversee general farming activities, including fertilising and pest and weed control.
• Maintain farm buildings, fences, equipment and water supply systems.
• Maintain and evaluate records of farming activities, monitor market activity and plan crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements and market demand.
• Manage business resources and contribute to budgeting and the planning of production expenditure.
• Select, train and supervise staff and contractors where required.
• Develop and implement strategies to manage climate-related risks affecting crop production.
• Manage workplace health and safety processes and ensure farming activities are conducted in accordance with applicable requirements.

Qualifications, skills and experience: Relevant experience in commercial nut, fruit or vegetable production, crop establishment, irrigation, fertiliser management, pest and weed control, harvesting and farm operations is essential for this position.

Employment conditions: Full-time employment with A.W. Steicke & Sons. Salary of AUD $79,423 per annum plus superannuation, subject to the applicable HILA salary provisions and annual market salary rate. 38 ordinary hours per week. Leave entitlements and other employment conditions in accordance with applicable Australian workplace laws and the relevant employment agreement. Work location: Beverford, Victoria.