Senior Agronomist

Zerella Fresh is one of Australia’s largest grower and packers of Carrots, Onions and Potatoes supplying Australia’s leading supermarket chains plus independents and exports.

We are currently seeking experienced and motivated Senior Agronomist to join our team on a full-time permanent basis, supporting operations at our Parilla site in South Australia.

As a valuable member of our team, this position will play a vital role in the success of our operations. If you are reliable, energetic and have a passion for horticulture we would love to hear from you.

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, able to work both independently and as part of a team. Reporting directly to the Agronomy Operations Leader you will be working in an expansive farm environment.

Zerella Fresh is a diverse and welcoming workplace, we encourage candidates from all locations and backgrounds to apply. An attractive remuneration package including base salary, superannuation, accommodation, relocation support and incentivised bonus structure is available to the right candidate.

Zerella Fresh is an approved employment sponsor and we are happy to consider international candidates who require sponsorship for this role.

PLEASE NOTE: This position is based in Parilla, South Australia. Only candidate who are willing to relocate to Parilla should apply.

Duties include:

• Provide farm-based agronomic input into production planning, budgets and seasonal crop programs.
• Provide agronomic advice and support to Farm Managers and Supervisors in relation to land preparation, planting, irrigation, fertiliser, crop protection, crop monitoring and harvesting.
• Develop and maintain crop monitoring programs to identify crop development, nutritional requirements, pests, diseases, weeds and other production risks at an early stage.
• Recommend and monitor fertiliser and chemical programs to achieve crop requirements, quality standards, yield targets and cost objectives.
• Support the implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and ensure appropriate monitoring, treatment thresholds and control measures are applied.
• Maintain accurate agronomic records and use production data to evaluate varieties, locations, practices, inputs and crop performance.
• Organise, coordinate and monitor agronomic trials and demonstrations, ensuring results are accurately recorded, evaluated and communicated to relevant stakeholders.
• Conduct research and evaluate new techniques, products, technologies and varieties and make recommendations for implementation where appropriate.
• Provide regular crop assessments, production forecasts and agronomic updates to relevant management and operational teams.
• Assist with crop yield, quality and harvest planning, including assessment of crop maturity and expected production outcomes.
• Identify opportunities to improve yield, pack-out, quality, input efficiency and cost of production while maintaining food safety, environmental and workplace safety requirements.
• Assist in the investigation of crop performance issues and develop practical corrective and preventative actions.
• Support the development and implementation of seasonal and longer-term agronomic strategies across the farming operations.
• Participate in Pye Group networking and knowledge sharing to support continuous improvement, innovation and achievement of business objectives.
• Provide technical agronomic coaching, instruction and support to Farm Managers, Supervisors, Agronomists and other farm personnel.
• Assist with the training and development of employees in crop monitoring, agronomic practices, chemical application requirements and safe work procedures.
• Build effective working relationships with farm operations, packing operations, procurement, quality, maintenance and other internal departments.
• All other requirements as directed to achieve business objectives. 

Requirements:

• Tertiary and/or post graduate level qualification in Agronomy, Agriculture, Agricultural Science or a related field, or equivalent relevant work experience.
• Minimum of 15 years relevant agronomic experience, within commercial horticultural or fresh produce operations.
• Sound understanding of crop production, seasonal timing, crop nutrition, irrigation, pest and disease management and general agronomy relating to fresh produce and vegetable crops.
• Demonstrated experience in potato, carrot and onion production is highly desirable.
• Experience in crop monitoring, agronomic trials, production planning, data analysis and interpretation of crop performance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and responsible chemical use.
• Chemical User Certificate Accreditation (essential).
• Full/unrestricted driver’s licence (essential).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with employees, Farm Managers, suppliers and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, planning, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary team.
• Cultural adaptability and a willingness to work with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Ability and willingness to work outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions.
• Commitment to ongoing learning, continuous improvement and a strong work ethic.
• Commitment to delivering team goals and the drive to achieve successful production outcomes.

Please visit www.zerellafresh.com.au for more information about the company.

To apply for this position please send an email to jessicapaterson@zerella.com.au including the title of the position in the email subject line. Please include a cover letter and up to date resume in your application.