Orchard Manager

Orchard Manager

Maryborough, Queensland

Permanent Full-Time Position

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Orchard Manager to oversee a designated section of our macadamia orchards spanning 350 - 500 hectares, in Maryborough, Queensland.

This role is responsible for leading orchard operations, driving crop performance, and developing a high-performing team. Working closely with the Area Manager and Operations Manager, you will plan, coordinate and oversee day-to-day orchard activities, including irrigation, maintenance, harvesting and operational programs.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership capability, a commitment to safety, and practical experience managing horticultural operations.

Key Responsibilities

Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Maximising orchard productivity through effective planning, operational efficiency and crop performance management
• Assisting with the development and monthly review of operational budgets and capital expenditure, optimising expenditure where possible and achieving forecast outcomes
• Overseeing orchard operations including:
  • Spraying
  • Pruning, fertilising, slashing and mulching
  • Irrigation management
  • Harvest operations
  • Pest monitoring and control
  • Farm maintenance and drainage improvement
• Leading, coaching and developing employees, contractors and labour hire personnel
• Managing performance, disciplinary and non-compliance matters as required
• Promoting a strong safety culture by demonstrating safe work practices and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures
• Identifying training needs and supporting the development of team members
• Participating in nutrition and irrigation management planning
• Contributing to the continuous improvement of farming systems, operational processes, and environmental and safety outcomes
• Ensuring accurate records are maintained for development and operational inputs, maintenance activities, chemical applications, fertiliser programs, irrigation, safety requirements, payroll and cost allocation timesheets

Requirements

Essential

• Valid C Class Driver's Licence
• Formal horticultural qualifications or demonstrated experience in tree crop production
• Experience managing teams, including employees, labour hire personnel and contractors
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications, including Excel for budgeting and reporting
• Advanced knowledge of land improvement and orchard development techniques
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail
• Current Chemical Certificate

Desirable

• Formal leadership training
• Macadamia production experience
• Safety-related training and qualifications

Benefits

• Competitive salary dependent on experience and qualifications
• Mobile phone, laptop and work vehicle
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• Salary continuance insurance and life insurance (subject to eligibility criteria)
• Annual discretionary bonus (subject to eligibility criteria)
• Access to the Employee Assistance Program

How to Apply

Submit your application, including a cover letter addressing the requirements of the role and your resume, via our website.

Applications will be assessed as they are received.

Appointment to the role is subject to satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks, which may include medical screening, reference checks and right to work verification.

About Rural Funds Management

Rural Funds Management (RFM) is an industry leader managing approximately $2.7 billion in agricultural assets on behalf of retail and institutional investors, including the ASX-listed Rural Funds Group (RFF). We have over 29 years' experience owning, developing, and operating farms in most Australian states.

At RFM, our culture is built on the core principle of 'Managing good assets with good people.' We believe in being precise, offering variety, rewarding effort, and providing a friendly workplace.

Joining RFM means becoming part of a dedicated team of over 260 professionals, including fund managers, finance experts, horticulturists, agronomists, and farm managers. Whether you are seeking a corporate or operational role, RFM has a place for individuals who are passionate about agriculture and finance.