Location: Sommerville, VIC, 3912
Full-Time: Immediate start
Job Title: Horticulture Grower
Salary range: $85,000 - $90,000
Job Closure date: 30 days
About our client:
Our client is a highly regarded and rapidly expanding leader in the FMCG sector, with a prestigious portfolio of high-value horticultural products grown on the Mornington Peninsula. Renowned for their commitment to quality and innovation, they employ a sophisticated, "whole of system" approach to agriculture, integrating advanced crop management techniques with sustainable land stewardship. Their focus is on producing premium, market-leading produce through a blend of expert knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a deep, practical understanding of the land.
About the Role:
On behalf of our client, we are seeking an energetic, passionate, and highly experienced Horticulture Grower to take a leading role in the end-to-end production and management of their premium crops. This is a pivotal, hands-on position where you will be responsible for translating strategic plans into tangible results, from soil preparation through to harvest and market delivery. The ideal candidate is a proactive professional who combines deep horticultural knowledge with strong operational and commercial acumen to drive both yield and quality.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
Strategic Crop Planning & Production Management:
• Develop and execute comprehensive seasonal production plans, coordinating all activities from soil preparation and planting to harvest, while strategically considering environmental factors, resource availability, and market trends.
• Select and source the highest quality seeds, seedlings, bulbs, and rootstocks, implementing advanced techniques such as grafting to cultivate superior plant varieties and ensure crop vitality.
• Direct and oversee all general farming activities, including precise fertiliser application programs and integrated pest and weed control strategies to maintain optimal plant health and productivity.
Operational Excellence & Crop Maintenance:
• Meticulously maintain crop production standards by expertly performing and supervising critical hands-on tasks including cultivation, de-budding, pruning, and irrigation management to create ideal growing conditions.
• Organise and lead farming operations for the post-harvest handling of produce, including the efficient collection, storage, grading, and packaging of goods to meet the highest market specifications.
• Coordinate the commercial logistics of the produce, including organising sales, purchases, and the timely dispatch of goods, ensuring a seamless chain from the farm to the customer.
Infrastructure, Safety & Business Administration:
• Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of key farm infrastructure, including buildings, fences, machinery, and critical water supply systems, to ensure operational reliability and safety.
• Maintain and critically evaluate detailed records of all farming activities, from input applications to yield data, using this information to monitor performance against production targets and contract requirements.
• Proactively manage all work health and safety processes on-site, fostering a culture of safety awareness and ensuring full compliance with industry regulations and best practices.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
• A relevant Trade Qualification in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a closely related field is essential.
• A minimum of 2 years of proven, hands-on post-trade experience in a similar horticultural growing or farm management role, within a commercial production environment.
• A current and valid Driver's Licence.
Essential Skills & Attributes:
• A demonstrated hands-on commitment with a practical, can-do attitude and a dedication to achieving excellence in all aspects of crop production and farm management.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to plan production to meet specific market demands and contract specifications, ensuring both quality and profitability.
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to oversee operational workflows, manage resources effectively, and ensure all tasks are completed to a high standard.
• A proactive and adaptable approach to problem-solving, with the capacity to think on your feet and respond effectively to the daily challenges of a production farm.
To Apply:
If you are a dedicated horticulture professional ready to take on a key role within a leading FMCG business, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience through the application portal.
