Overview

The Maintenance Manager is responsible for leading and performing all maintenance activities across the orchard to ensure that machinery, vehicles, plant, and infrastructure are maintained to the highest operational and safety standards. This role ensures equipment reliability, minimal downtime, and optimal productivity while fostering a safe and efficient working environment.

What you'll do

Key Responsibilities

·     Conduct routine servicing, repairs, and maintenance of machinery and equipment in accordance with service checklists, manufacturer manuals, Australian Standards, regulations, and company procedures.

·     Maintain accurate records of all maintenance work completed, including service logs and repair documentation.

·     Ensure all machinery, plant, and vehicles are operated safely and efficiently to minimise downtime and maximise performance.

·     Identify and report unsafe machinery, equipment, or infrastructure, and take prompt action to rectify or escalate issues.

·     Oversee the daily machinery pre-start checklist process and ensure operators complete checks prior to commencing duties.

·     Monitor the condition of all equipment to determine appropriate timing for preventative maintenance.

·     Maintain adequate tools, spare parts, and equipment to meet operational requirements.

·     Supervise, train, and support maintenance and field staff to achieve high standards of machinery operation and upkeep.

·     During the harvest period, ensure all harvest machinery is regularly serviced and maintained for continuous performance.

Financial Management

·       Support the Farm Manager and other stakeholders in managing the horticultural maintenance budget.

·       Monitor repair and maintenance (R&M) expenditure to ensure efficiency and cost effectiveness.

·       Conduct timely and accurate stocktakes of spare parts and consumables, and provide data to the Finance Department as required.

·       Contribute to resource planning and cost forecasting to maintain operational sustainability.

Key Performance Indicators

·     Contribute to the achievement of annual company KPIs, including financial, safety, and sustainability targets.

·     Deliver assigned projects and initiatives on time, within budget, and to agreed quality standards.

·     Meet individual performance goals as agreed in annual performance and development plans.

Leadership

·     Setting Objectives: Establish clear, achievable goals for team members that align with the overall organisational objectives. Ensure these goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

·     Conducting Performance Reviews: Regularly review team members' performance, providing constructive feedback, recognising achievements, and identifying areas for improvement. Document and discuss these reviews with the team members.

·     Facilitating Development: Identify and provide opportunities for professional development, including training programs, workshops, mentoring, and other resources that support team members' growth.

·     Providing Support: Offer ongoing support and guidance to team members. Be approachable and available to assist with any challenges they may face in achieving their goals.

·     Monitoring Progress: Continuously monitor the progress of team members towards their goals. Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide timely feedback.

·     Resource Management: Efficiently manage resources, including time, budget, and personnel, to ensure the team can achieve its objectives.

·     Conflict Resolution: Address and resolve conflicts within the team in a timely and effective manner, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

·     Communication: Maintain open and effective communication channels within the team and with other departments. Ensure that team members are informed about organizational changes, updates, and expectations.

·     Decision Making: Make informed and timely decisions that benefit the team and the organization. Involve team members in the decision-making process when appropriate.

·     Oversee rostering, payroll, and workforce planning to ensure optimal staffing levels and operational efficiency.  

Safety and Compliance

·       Follow any reasonable instruction given by the employer to comply with OHS requirements.

·       Immediately report any hazards, incidents, or near misses to your supervisor.

·       Use established reporting systems to document hazards and incidents.

·       Attend and actively participate in all required safety training sessions.

·       Complete any required certifications and refresher courses.

·       Adhere to all safety procedures and protocols established by the employer.

·       Ensure understanding and compliance with Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), Safety Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and Job Safety Analyses (JSAs).

·       Ensure that all equipment is used according to the training and instructions provided.

·       Perform pre-use inspections and report any defects or issues.

·       Be familiar with and follow all emergency procedures and evacuation plans.

·       Participate in emergency drills and training.

·       Ensure personal actions do not endanger oneself or others.

·       Use PPE as required and maintain it in good condition.

What you'll need

·       Tertiary or trade qualification in mechanical, electrical, or agricultural engineering, coupled with demonstrated leadership experience in maintenance management within an agricultural or horticultural environment

·       Current driver’s licence.

• ·       Strong knowledge of horticultural machinery, irrigation systems, and farm infrastructure.

  ·       Good understanding of horticultural production principles and maintenance best practices.

  ·       Ability to lead and motivate staff in a team-based environment.

  ·       Sound communication, planning, and organisational skills.

  ·       Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.

Benefits

•        Salary: Starting from AUD $95,000 - $110,000 per annum, based on experience.

  ·       Superannuation: 12% of ordinary time earnings

  ·       Annual Leave: 4 weeks of paid annual leave per year.

  ·       Sick & Carer’s Leave: 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave per year.

  ·       Vehicle: Company vehicle and fuel provided for work purposes.

• Living and Working in Regional Australia

  Australia's agricultural regions offer excellent quality of life with strong community connections, affordable living, and beautiful natural environments. You'll enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with access to modern amenities, outdoor activities, and genuine country hospitality.

  Learn more: https://www.selectharvests.com.au/