Irrigation Manager (SH_NSW)

Overview

Lead and oversee all irrigation operations on farm, ensuring optimal tree health, water efficiency, and fertiliser application in alignment with the orchard’s growth cycle. The Irrigation Manager will plan, coordinate, and execute irrigation and fertigation programs, manage irrigation infrastructure and staff, and provide data-driven insights to support decision-making.

What you'll do

• Accountability

  ·     Lead, plan, and coordinate all irrigation and fertigation activities to ensure optimal soil moisture and tree health throughout the growth cycle.

  ·     Collate, interpret, and manage irrigation monitoring data, including soil moisture, water table levels, and telemetry-based systems (e.g., MAIT System), providing insights for irrigation scheduling and optimisation.

  ·     Schedule and supervise irrigation and fertigation programs, ensuring efficient water and nutrient use while minimising waste.

  ·     Plan, schedule, and conduct preventative and reactive maintenance of irrigation infrastructure, including pumps, pipelines, valves, filters, controllers, storage facilities, and drip lines.

  ·     Operate and troubleshoot irrigation controllers, PLCs, pumps, and other irrigation system components to ensure reliable system performance.

  ·     Manage, train, and supervise an irrigation team to ensure tasks are completed efficiently, safely, and to a high standard.

  ·     Identify and report wet areas, soil compaction, or irrigation issues; implement corrective measures in consultation with the Farm Manager.

  ·     Maintain accurate records of all irrigation and fertigation activities, water and power usage, and associated operational data for reporting and compliance purposes.

  ·     Ensure all irrigation equipment and tools are secure, functional, and maintained according to best practice standards.

  ·     Monitor environmental conditions and water availability, adjusting irrigation schedules to respond to rainfall, temperature, soil conditions, and water restrictions.

  ·     Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for water use efficiency, cost reduction, and technology adoption.

  ·     Ensure compliance with relevant environmental regulations, quality programs, and tree health requirements.

  Financial Management

  ·     Manage the irrigation related components of the Farm Horticultural Budget, e.g. labour requirements, asset maintenance and fertiliser inventory.

  ·     Ensure that irrigation and fertiliser programs are completed on time and within budget. This program must observe all the best practice systems and utilise all cost saving practices to optimise tree growth.

  ·     Ensure timely and accurate water meter readings and fertiliser stocktakes.

  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

• ·     Minimum of 5 years’ experience as an Irrigation 2IC or Farm Hand with extensive irrigation experience in almond orchards, tree nut orchards, or other perennial horticultural/viticultural crops.

  ·     Relevant tertiary qualification or on-farm experience in horticulture or irrigation management preferred.

  ·     Current driver’s licence.

  ·     Strong literacy, numeracy, and organisational skills.

  ·     Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.

  ·     Proven ability to build relationships with staff and foster teamwork.

  ·     Strong administrative skills, including record-keeping and reporting.

  ·     Demonstrated ability to manage irrigation infrastructure and schedule maintenance effectively.

Benefits

• ·       Salary: Starting from AUD $105,000 – $115,000 per annum, based on experience.

  ·       Short Term Incentive (STI): Up to 10% of Total Fixed Remuneration Package (Base + Super)

  ·       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.

  ·       On-farm accommodation available

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/