Horticulture Farm Manager, Mobile Plant Operator and Irrigationist

Horticulture Farm Manager, Mobile Plant Operator and Irrigationist

Gill Farm Operations Pty Ltd t/a Gill Farms Mildura

1596 Kulkyne Way, Iraak VIC 3494

Salary $75,000–$110,000

Full-time, permanent

Job Description

Gill Farms Mildura is hiring a full time Farm Manager, Mobile Plant Operator and Irrigationist in Iraak, VIC. Apply now to be part of our team.

Gill Farms Mildura is a family owned and operated company located in the Irrak Nangiloc area, approximately 30 kms south of Mildura. The property is approximately 385 Ha and comprises Citrus, Wine Grapes & Avocados.

We have an exciting role in our expanding horticulture company for a Farm Manager, Mobile Plant Operator and Irrigationist.

Farm Manager Responsibilities

The role encompasses the day-to-day management of orchard including:

1. Determining, implementing, and monitoring production strategies, policies, and plans.
2. Assuming full responsibility for the horticultural programs developed to maximise tree growth and crop performance in a sustainable manner.
3. Evaluating orchard conditions and being responsible for the supply of optimum quantities of irrigation water and fertiliser to meet all orchard needs within the approved programs.
4. Planning details of production activities in terms of output quality and quantity, cost, time available, and labour requirements.
5. Controlling the operation of production plant and quality procedures through planning of maintenance, designation of operating hours, and supply of parts and tools.
6. Overseeing the acquisition and installation of new plant and equipment.
7. Directing research into production methods and recommending and implementing initiatives.
8. Monitoring production output and costs and adjusting processes and resources to minimise costs.
9. Coordinating the implementation of occupational health and safety requirements.
10. Directing staff activities and monitoring their performance.
11. Ensuring all staffing levels are maintained against the approved human resource budget, with the assistance of the General Manager.
12. Identifying training needs of staff and being responsible for the implementation of appropriate training.
13. Informing other managers about production matters.
14. Controlling the preparation of production records and reports.

Qualifications and experience required:

At least relevant AQF Cert III or Cert IV qualifications or equivalent or three years employment experience as a Horticulture Farm Manager with relevant formal training

Mobile Plant Operator Responsibilities

1. Prepare and position tractors, harvesters, and other mobile machinery for safe and efficient operations.
2. Operate tractor-drawn and self-propelled machinery to plough, sow, fertilise, cultivate, and harvest crops while minimizing damage to plants.
3. Adjust machinery settings, including speed, implement height, and working depth, to suit varying soil types and crop requirements.
4. Maintain accurate log tallies and complete work reports detailing field operations and machinery use.
5. Service machinery routinely and perform minor repairs to ensure reliability and farm safety.
6. Work closely with farm supervisors to plan and execute timely field operations across the property.

Qualifications and experience required

At least a relevant AQF Cert II or equivalent and at least one year relevant experience or at least two years relevant experience and at least two years post qualifications experience

Irrigationist Responsibilities:

1. Determine hydraulic parameters and design requirements for irrigation systems across citrus, wine grapes, avocado blocks etc.
2. Develop and implement crop-specific irrigation programs, considering growth stages, soil moisture, and local climate conditions.
3. Schedule and monitor irrigations to ensure optimal water use and crop performance across the property.
4. Select, operate, and maintain pumping systems to provide reliable and efficient water delivery.
5. Interpret irrigation designs and implement them for both existing plantings and new farm developments.
6. Supervise the installation of irrigation systems, including drip, micro-sprinkler, and pivot systems.
7. Oversee routine maintenance of irrigation infrastructure, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate repairs.
8. Maintain accurate records of irrigation schedules, system performance, and maintenance activities.

Qualifications and experience required

At least a relevant AQF Cert II or equivalent and at least one year relevant post qualifications experience or have at least two years relevant experience