Horticulturist - Berry - Tasmania

at  Costa

Costa Pty Ltd Berry Category is Australia’s largest berry producer with multiple sites located across Australia. Costa grows and markets blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries.
Costa’s berry category is proudly at the forefront of genetic and growing innovation. We grow significant volumes of fruit to supply major retailers in the country so food quality and safety is paramount. In all that we grow, we’re committed to sustainable production and growing.
The Tasmanian operation is looking for passionate Horticulturist’s to join the Costa team. This is a permanent role based in Tasmania, located across our Blueberry (Sulphur Creek) & Blackberry Farm (Dunorlan).
The Horticulturist is responsible for supporting the Farm Manager and Senior Horticulturist on all horticultural issues relating to crop production. The role is critical in supporting commercial production and ensuring that effective monitoring and management of all crop related decisions are made in a timely manner.

ABOUT YOU:

The successful candidate needs to be able to demonstrate high levels of commitment and performance and will have;

• Horticultural or agricultural qualifications
• Relevant experience (within berry crops is beneficial but not essential)
• Ability and willingness to get out into the field and be involved in day-to-day operations
• Exposure to budget and KPI’s
• High level organisation and planning skills
• Ability to make decisions independently

In addition, we are looking for candidates with the following;

• Current drivers licence
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Computer skills, including use of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to influence and work alongside people demonstrating a strong people management skillset

IN THIS ROLE YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FOLLOWING:

• Involvement in areas of crop productions such as: irrigation management in substrate and soil systems, nutrition, crop timing and planning, canopy management, research and development projects and pest and disease
• Coordination of horticultural activities
• Management and education of people within the horticultural them and operations staff executing horticultural instruction
• Monitor, report and make decisions on daily nutrition requirements including EC and pH management.
• Manage data analysis - collect samples and conduct tests.
• Report and communicate all monitoring and trial results, findings and recommendations
• Support, monitor and manage budget requirements, adhering to financial requirements and schedules as directed by Farm and Regional Manager.
• Track financial performance regularly to ensure compliance with budgetary requirements

WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibility for supporting and complying with the Costa Group Work Health and Safety Policy, including the maintenance of a safe and healthy workplace for the protection of all employees.