Position Overview:
We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator to join our operations team. We are a specialist horticultural services company based in Central Otago, delivering premium solutions in orchard development, irrigation, climate systems, and orchard management services to clients across the region.
This role is crucial in supporting the efficient and safe use of mobile plant machinery across a range of technical and land-based services.
- Minimum 30 hours per week guaranteed.
- Employee housing is provided on-site, and applicants must reside in the farm accommodation. No drive-in options available.
- Accommodation may be shared or private, depending on availability at the time of successful placement. No pets allowed.
Applicants must have the following as per employer’s requirement:
- At least 1 year relevant work experience, OR a Level 3 qualification
- Applicants must be physically fit and willing to learn.
- Applicants must pass pre-employment drug test and have no criminal record.
- Must have a driver licence
- Employees will be required to work between 2 Otago locations
Key Responsibilities include but not limited to:
- Prepare and position mobile plant equipment for safe and efficient use across various horticultural operations.
- Operate tractor-drawn and self-propelled machinery to support:
- Ground preparation and cultivation,
- Mowing and weed control,
- Spraying of trees with approved agricultural sprays,
- Fertiliser spreading.
- Adjust machinery settings such as speed, height, and depth of implements to suit varying ground and conditions.
- Conduct regular maintenance, basic servicing, and minor repairs on mobile plant and equipment to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
- Assist with the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems, frost protection, and climate control systems as part of the business’s technical horticultural services.
- Perform machinery-based support functions for the setup and maintenance of land infrastructure and horticultural systems, including trellis systems, irrigation lines, and protective structures.
- Maintain accurate records of daily machinery operations, chemical applications, fertiliser use, and servicing activities.
- Support the broader horticultural operations team with technical machinery expertise for project work and seasonal property requirements.
- Follow and promote health and safety procedures in line with company policies and regulatory standards.
Skills and Attributes:
- Excellent understanding of health and safety practices in a machinery-intensive environment.
- Ability to work independently and follow scheduled work plans and instructions.
- Good communication and record-keeping skills.
- Self-motivated with a strong work ethic
- Reliable and punctual
- Strong attention to detail
- Able to work independently and follow instructions
- Physically fit and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively
- Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities
Please provide us with information as to your eligibility to work in New Zealand – if you are on a temporary visa or if you are a New Zealand citizen/resident.