The Lucas Group is recruiting an experienced Orchard/Farm Manager to join a major olive grove development in South Australia's Riverland.
With approximately 1,500ha planned across multiple stages, this is your opportunity to be involved from the early establishment phase, with the first planting scheduled for March 2027.
Working closely with senior management and the project team, you will help establish the operational systems, processes and workforce needed to support the development and long-term management of the grove.
Initially, the role will have a strong focus on establishment, planning and team development before transitioning towards the management of day-to-day orchard operations as the trees mature. You will have access to industry leading technical support from planting through to crop production.
About the Role
You will oversee the planning, coordination and management of orchard operations, initially focusing on establishment, operational systems and team development before transitioning towards ongoing orchard management.
Key responsibilities include:
- Coordinate orchard establishment, planting and development activities.
- Manage irrigation, nutrition, pruning, weed control, pest and disease programs.
- Monitor tree health, crop development and orchard productivity.
- Plan and coordinate harvesting and post-harvest operations.
- Develop operating plans, work programs and procedures.
- Recruit, lead and develop farm personnel and seasonal workers.
- Manage budgets, procurement, labour and farm resources.
- Monitor operational performance, costs and productivity.
- Oversee machinery, equipment and infrastructure maintenance.
- Maintain operational records, reporting and compliance.
About You
- 3+ years' experience in orchard, farm or horticultural management preferably with citrus or nut crops.
- Strong knowledge of tree crop cultivation, irrigation, nutrition and pest and disease management.
- Experience planning farm operations and improving productivity.
- Proven people leadership skills, including managing seasonal workforces.
- Budgeting, forecasting and resource management experience.
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Experience with farm management systems, reporting and record-keeping.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Base salary circa $110,000–$140,000 + super (depending on capability).
- Company dual-cab ute, phone and laptop.
- Performance-based bonuses during the establishment phase.
- Potential for ongoing production-based incentives as the grove becomes operational.
- On-farm accommodation available, subject to renovations and agreement.
This is your opportunity to help shape a significant agricultural development and build your own team, systems and operational practices behind a large-scale olive growing operation.
Apply through the links, or, for a confidential discussion, contact Luke Cuthbertson
on (08) 8201 9999. Reference number LC11613
The Lucas Group
For over 30 years The Lucas Group has been providing agricultural industries in Australia with executive search, recruitment, and human resources consulting services.
Find out more about us or upload your resume: www.lucasgroup.com.au
