About the opportunity
We are looking for an Orchard Manager to manage a section of our recently planted macadamia orchards in Maryborough, Queensland. We are seeking someone with a proven understanding of macadamia orchard requirements, a commitment to precision and safety, with strong leadership capabilities.
Key responsibilities
Reporting to the Operations Manager you will be responsible to:
- Maximise yields through systematic planning, operational efficiency, optimising crop performance, completion of tasks and removal of constraints in conjunction with other roles.
- Assist with the development and monthly review of operational budgets and capital expenditure optimising expenditure where possible and meeting forecasts.
- Oversee farm maintenance and operational activities including but not limited to:
- Spraying
- Pruning, fertilising, slashing, and mulching
- Irrigation
- Harvesting
- Farm maintenance and drainage, including continuous improvement of systems.
- Lead and develop workers, managing disciplinary and non-compliance issues as required.
- Act as a role model by demonstrating precise and safe work behaviours and reinforcing policies and procedures.
- Identify training needs of workers.
- Participate in nutrition and irrigation management planning.
- Contribute to the development and improvement of farming systems, safety and environmental processes.
- Manage disciplinary and non-compliance as required.
- Ensure records/forms are maintained for development and operational inputs, maintenance, chemical spraying, fertilising, irrigating, payroll and cost allocation timesheets and safety.
The following criteria are essential to be successful in this position:
- Formal training in horticulture or demonstrated tree crop experience essential.
- Formal training in leadership preferred.
- Experience with MS Office suite, particularly Excel for managing budgets essential.
- Experience managing teams including employees, labour hire and contractors essential.
- Advanced experience and knowledge of land improvement techniques.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Strong organisation and time management skills.
- Safety training will be highly regarded.
- Macadamia experience highly regarded.
- A competitive salary dependant on experience and qualifications
- Mobile phone, laptop and work vehicle
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Salary continuance insurance, life insurance, and annual discretionary bonus (subject to eligibility criteria)
How to apply
To be considered for this position, please submit a covering letter addressing the requirements mentioned above and your resume by 13 April 2024 via our website. Candidates may be evaluated prior to the closing date for this position.
At RFM we value inclusion and encourage applicants from different backgrounds to apply.
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.
