Research Agronomist / Field Trial Officer
Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) is a team of research and communication professionals supporting innovation through the horticultural supply chain, from farm to consumer. We work with growers and supply chain stakeholders to improve the profitability of fresh produce businesses through research, training, communication and extension work on issues such as soil health, pest/disease management, agronomic systems, and postharvest quality losses.
About the Role
This field-based agronomy and trial support role is located in Renmark, South Australia, onsite at a Renmark property approximately three days per week.
The role supports ongoing trials involving protected avocado crops grown in containerised, undercover systems, part of the Growing Horticulture through Protected Cropping Innovation Program, evaluating and refining production systems, agronomic practices and technology-based approaches under commercial growing conditions.
You will assist with day-to-day management, maintenance and monitoring of trials, including treatment applications, equipment care, crop assessments, data collection and record keeping, ensuring trials are maintained consistently and data is collected accurately.
This role suits a practical, hands-on person who shows initiative, can work independently once tasks are defined, and can follow trial protocols carefully across technical, physical and administrative tasks. Avocado experience isn’t essential; experience in horticulture, agronomy, crop production, protected cropping, field trials or farm operations is highly regarded.
The role is employed and managed by AHR, with field priorities and technical direction coordinated with onsite team and project staff.
Location, Employment and Contract
- Location: Renmark, SA
- Employment type: Part-time, fixed-term — approx. three days/week onsite. Open to Full-time employment option.
- Contract term: Fixed-term for up to five years, aligned to the Program’s duration and subject to ongoing funding.
- Time commitment may vary with seasonal requirements, treatment schedules and workload.
Key Responsibilities
Trial Implementation & Field Support
- Assist with establishment, maintenance and monitoring of trial areas and treatments.
- Support routine crop, site and equipment management tasks.
- Apply trial treatments per agreed protocols.
- Undertake field tasks using tools such as secateurs, hedgers, saws and sprayers.
- Report issues affecting trial implementation, crop condition, equipment or data quality.
Trial Assessments, Data Collection and Reporting
- Conduct regular crop, treatment and trial assessments.
- Collect accurate field data and maintain records of treatment timing, methods, conditions and observations.
- Enter and manage data using basic digital systems, including Excel.
- Support preparation of trial summaries, progress notes and reports.
Site Coordination and Communication
- Work closely with onsite staff, AHR project managers, researchers and other partners.
- Coordinate onsite activities so trial work integrates with farm operations.
- Communicate clearly about tasks, site requirements, issues and constraints.
Workplace Health, Safety and Compliance
- Follow AHR and site-specific WHS requirements.
- Use tools, equipment and chemicals safely and responsibly.
- Work per approved procedures, permits and instructions.
- Maintain awareness of biosecurity, chemical handling and farm safety.
- Report hazards, incidents or near misses promptly.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Experience implementing or supporting horticulture, agriculture or field-based trials.
- Practical experience with tools such as secateurs, hedgers, saws and backpack sprayers.
- Basic computer literacy (Word, Excel, email).
- Experience with data collection, entry and record keeping.
- Demonstrated initiative and ability to work independently in the field.
- Current driver’s licence.
Highly Desirable
- Qualification in horticulture, agriculture, agronomy, plant science or related field.
- Understanding of irrigation, nutrition, pruning, crop monitoring, pest/disease management or treatment application.
- Chemical users certificate.
- Experience with horticultural crops, protected cropping or crop production systems (avocado not required).
Personal Attributes
- Careful and consistent when following protocols and recording information.
- Able to build trust with growers, farm staff and technical teams.
- Can-do attitude, willing to learn and support the project team.
Reporting and Working Relationships
The role works closely with AHR project managers and staff, research trial leaders, onsite/technical staff, and other technical specialists as required.
Why Work for Us?
We’re a small, welcoming team offering flexible working, professional growth, exposure to a wide array of projects, salary sacrifice options, and a strong sense of purpose helping horticulture become more sustainable and future-ready.
How to Apply
Please forward your resume and cover letter to the email address provided.
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold full working rights in Australia.
