Agricultural Technicians
Nestled in the heart of regional Victoria, NKS Fresh Farm is a proudly Australian-owned agricultural business dedicated to producing premium quality fresh fruit. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, the farm has built a reputation for delivering high-standard produce to both local and national markets.
Covering approximately 51 acres of fertile land, NKS Fresh Farm specialises in growing a carefully selected range of fruits, including Gala apples, Ginger Gold apples, Sundowner apples, Packham pears, and William pears. Each fruit is cultivated with meticulous care to ensure it reaches peak ripeness, flavour, and nutritional value.In recent times, NKS Fresh has expanded its operations through the acquisition of additional land, enhancing its capacity to cultivate more varieties of apples and pears.
In addition to its farming activities, NKS Fresh operates a modern on-site packing shed, providing professional packaging services that uphold strict standards of hygiene, efficiency, and care.
About the role:As our operations continue to grow, NKS Fresh Farm is currently seeking a qualified Agricultural Technician to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual with a passion for horticulture and hands-on farm experience to contribute to a dynamic and expanding agricultural enterprise.
Position: Agricultural TechnicianLocation of Work: 662 Midland Highway, Shepparton East, Vic 3631.
Employment Type: Permanent, Full time
Salary Range: $70,000 to $80,000 plus Superannuation
Main Responsibilities:
Soil Evaluation and Management- Conduct soil sampling and testing to assess nutrient levels, pH, and overall health.
- Recommend appropriate soil amendments, fertilisers, and compost applications.
- Develop and implement soil conservation techniques to minimise erosion and maintain fertility.
- Assist in planning and executing crop rotation and intercropping strategies for optimal yield. • Monitor the growth, health, and productivity of fruit trees and crops.
- Provide advice and strategies for pest and disease control, including integrated pest management (IPM).
- Offer guidance on sustainable irrigation practices for orchard and crop management.
- Collect and analyse data related to crop performance, soil health, and climatic conditions.
- Use findings to recommend improvements in agricultural practices, productivity, and sustainability.
- Troubleshoot and repair irrigation, pruning, and agrochemical application equipment as necessary.
- Operate, maintain, and repair farm machinery and equipment, including tractors, harvesters, and sprayers as necessary.
- Provide training on the correct usage and maintenance of agricultural equipment.
- Participate in the planting, pruning, thinning, and training of fruit trees, especially stone fruits.
- Monitor tree health, including the identification and treatment of pests and diseases.
- Design, install, and manage efficient orchard irrigation systems to optimise water use. Application of Agrochemicals:
- Apply pesticides, herbicides, and other pest control measures safely and effectively as needed.
- Adhere to chemical safety standards and regulatory requirements during applications.
- Monitor crop health and recommend appropriate agrochemical treatments based on soil and plant analysis.
- Assist in pruning and training stone fruit trees to maximise fruit quality and productivity.
- Implement and promote proper canopy management techniques.
- Utilize tools and equipment for pruning and ensure their proper maintenance and calibration.
- Oversee the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems to ensure an adequate water supply.
- Implement and research water-saving technologies and strategies to enhance resource efficiency.
- Support the professional development of farm staff by introducing new agricultural technologies and techniques to improve overall productivity.
- Train and supervise daily tasks such as planting, pruning, irrigation, harvesting, and pest control, ensuring efficiency and quality of work of seasonal workers.
- Ensure tasks are carried out effectively and in compliance with established farm protocols
Relevant Qualifications and Experience required:
Qualifications: A minimum of a relevant Diploma.Experience: At least one year experience in a similar role.
Skills:- Expertise in soil testing, crop management, and pest control.
- Skilled in operating and maintaining farm machinery and irrigation systems.
- Data collection and analysis to drive agricultural improvements.
- Knowledge of tree planting, pruning, and canopy management.
- Familiarity with sustainable farming and crop rotation.
- Problem-solving skills for soil, irrigation, and pest issues.
- Understanding of agrochemical safety and compliance.
- Effective communication and leadership for training and supervision.
- Physical stamina for outdoor tasks and challenging conditions.
- Strong time management and task prioritization.
- Attention to detail in crop health and equipment maintenance.
- Proficiency in agricultural software for data management
If you meet the above criteria and are interested in being a part of this team, we would like to hear from you. To submit your application, click on the Apply button provided, and we will be in touch. Make sure that your application includes your updated CV.
Incomplete applications will not be considered while shortlisting applications. Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be notified.