Farm Manager
We are seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee year-round farm operations across our vineyard and olive orchard in the Hunter Valley.
Experience or sound knowledge of olive cultivation and harvesting is essential for this role. We are looking for someone with practical farming experience who can manage day-to-day operations, maintain crop health and quality, and ensure efficient and timely harvesting.
This is a permanent, full-time position based in the Hunter Valley, with free accommodation provided to the successful candidate.
Key Responsibilities
Crop Management
- Plan and manage annual crop activities, including pruning, topping, fertilising, pest and disease control, and weed management.
- Monitor crop health, growth, development and maturity to determine optimal harvesting times.
- Plan and implement spray and fertiliser programs, maintaining accurate records and complying with product label requirements and relevant chemical-use regulations.
Irrigation and Water Management
- Operate, monitor and maintain irrigation systems, including bores, pumps, filters, mainlines and driplines.
- Schedule irrigation based on soil moisture, weather conditions, crop growth stages and water availability.
- Manage fertigation programs where applicable.
- Maintain accurate water-use records and assist with compliance with water licence and metering requirements.
- Identify and promptly resolve irrigation leaks, blockages and pump faults to minimise crop stress.
Harvesting and Farm Operations
- Plan, coordinate and oversee mechanical harvesting activities, particularly for olives.
- Operate and supervise tractors, harvesting machinery and other farm equipment safely and efficiently.
- Coordinate harvest labour, machinery and schedules to maintain productivity, protect crop quality and ensure timely post-harvest handling.
- Oversee general farm operations throughout the year, ensuring work is completed efficiently and safely.
- Maintain farm equipment and facilities and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements.
About You
The successful candidate will have:
- Practical experience or sound knowledge of olive cultivation and harvesting (essential).
- Experience in a commercial vineyard, olive orchard or other horticultural operation.
- A qualification in agriculture, horticulture or agronomy (preferred).
- Sound knowledge of crop management, irrigation systems and general farm operations.
- Experience operating tractors and agricultural machinery.
- The ability to work independently, manage priorities and solve practical problems.
- Good organisational, communication and record-keeping skills.
- A strong commitment to workplace health and safety.
- A current driver’s licence.
- The ability and willingness to work in a regional location.
What We Offer
- Permanent, full-time employment.
- Free accommodation in the Hunter Valley.
- The opportunity to manage diverse vineyard and olive orchard operations.
Apply Now
If you have hands-on farming experience and the skills to manage an olive orchard and vineyard, we encourage you to apply.
Please submit your application via SEEK.
