Plant & Food Research
Orchard Technician – Te Puke | Plant & Food Research
Location: Te Puke, New Zealand
Work Type: Permanent, Full-Time (38 hours per week)
Vacancy Number: 56841
Closing Date: 29 November 2024, 11:55 PM
About the Role
Are you passionate about horticulture and ready to take the next step in your career? Plant & Food Research is seeking an enthusiastic Orchard Technician to support innovative science projects and orchard maintenance. This role is central to helping us develop cultivars that represent the future of horticulture.
Enjoy a role where your work-life balance is respected, with most weekends off, and where your horticultural expertise can truly make a difference.
Key Responsibilities
As an Orchard Technician, you will:
- Plant and Soil Maintenance: Assist the Orchard Manager in monitoring plant health and soil conditions to ensure optimal growing environments.
- Crop and Orchard Care: Perform spraying, irrigation, pruning, weed control, and fertilisation tasks.
- Health and Safety: Oversee onboarding of casual workers and contractors, ensuring strict adherence to health and safety protocols.
- Team Support: Build positive relationships with science staff, contractors, and visitors while contributing to smooth orchard operations.
What You Bring
The ideal candidate is a hands-on team player who takes pride in their work and prioritises health and safety. You’ll also bring:
- Experience in orchard operations or a qualification in horticulture.
- A strong aptitude for operating machinery and equipment used in orchard maintenance.
- A desire to learn, adapt, and develop new skills in a supportive environment.
- Physical fitness suitable for orchard-based work.
- A valid Full Driver’s Licence.
Benefits
At Plant & Food Research, we value work-life balance, career development, and employee wellbeing. Joining us offers:
- Generous Leave: 7 additional leave days and paid parental leave.
- Wellbeing Support: Enhanced sick leave and access to health and wellbeing programs.
- Retirement Savings: Competitive retirement benefits.
- Career Growth: Ongoing development opportunities in a supportive team environment.
About Plant & Food Research
Plant & Food Research (Rangahau Ahumāra Kai) is dedicated to shaping a better future through science. Our team of over 1,000 people works globally to improve food systems, create sustainable practices, and deliver healthy foods. By combining Mātauranga Māori with science, we aim to promote growth and success for all of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Important Information
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. Applicants must be NZ citizens, residents, or hold open work rights.
- Application Process: View the full Position Description by clicking Apply, and submit your application by 29 November 2024.
