We are thrilled to offer an exciting opportunity to join our macadamia development team as the Orchard Development Manager. In this pivotal role, you will be a key player in the establishment of approximately 2,000 hectares of greenfield macadamia orchards in the Fitzroy River region at Gogango, Queensland.
This is a hands-on, physically demanding position where you will work closely with your team. Currently, one third of the development is complete, and as we finalise the remaining sections over the next two to three years, this role will evolve into an Orchard Manager position.
Reporting to the Area Manager – Fitzroy Macadamia Operations, you will be responsible for:
- Management of all works pertaining to orchard development from irrigation installation to operational handover which includes:
- Review of areas to be developed prior to irrigation installation
- Staking and taping of laterals
- Coordination of automation installation and rollout following irrigation
- Final spoil removal and site preparation following irrigation install ready for mounding
- Application of all soil amelioration requirements prior to mounding
- Deep ripping of tree and mid-rows
- Mounding of tree rows with established processes utilising the grader and rock burier
- All sowing and soil erosion mitigation techniques observed onsite, including grassing drains, mid-rows and mounds, coir logs and natural barriers
- Spraying out of mound prior to planting, and any further orchard maintenance requirements between mounding and planting
- Laying of laterals, flush tap installation and stakes
- Development of variety plan and coordination of planting
- Coordination and assisting planting contractor
- Sprinkler installation (primary, secondary and second sprinkler)
- Final orchard tidy up following planting, including rock and spoil removal, row-end trim, access and drain tidy up
- Any additional items pertaining to the final orchard handover arising from the unique nature of the development area
- Strategic planning, budget control and problem-solving in relation to the role.
- Contributing to the continuous improvement of our Safety Management System through collaboration and training of team members.
- Being a positive role model by being precise, safety conscious and following policies and procedures.
- Current drivers’ licence required (HR drivers’ licence preferable)
- Chemical certificate required
- Prior experience with horticultural tree crops required (tertiary qualifications in horticulture or agricultural science highly regarded)
- Prior management experience with strong planning and prioritisation skills
- Prior experience developing greenfield sites with project management expertise highly regarded
- Advanced experience and knowledge of land improvement techniques to maximise yield potential and operational efficiency
- Experience with and advanced technical and operational knowledge of modern farm machinery operations and maintenance, including the use of relevant precision farming tools and computer systems, including GPS and GIS systems preferred
- Experience with minor maintenance and machinery repairs is advantageous
- Proficient in the use of MS office suite
- Competitive annual salary between $100,000 and $140,000 p.a., dependant on experience and qualifications
- Company vehicle for work purposes, laptop and mobile phone
- Group salary continuance, group life insurance plan (subject to eligibility requirements)
- Annual discretionary bonus
- Please note: Accommodation is not provided with this position
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, please submit a covering letter addressing the criteria mentioned above and your resume via our website by 24 June 2024. Please note that candidates will be evaluated before the closing date.
About Rural Funds Management:
Rural Funds Management (RFM) is an industry leader managing approximately $2.3 billion in agricultural assets on behalf of retail and institutional investors, including the ASX-listed Rural Funds Group (RFF). We have over 27 years' experience owning, developing, and operating farms in most Australian states.
At RFM, our culture is built on the core principle of 'Managing good assets with good people.' We believe in being precise, offering variety, rewarding effort, and providing a friendly workplace.
Joining RFM means becoming part of a dedicated team of over 240 professionals, including fund managers, finance experts, horticulturists, agronomists, and farm managers. Whether you are seeking a corporate or operational role, RFM has a place for individuals who are passionate about agriculture and finance.
