We are looking for someone to act as an innovator and champion within the business, actively identifying opportunities to improve harvest outcomes through science, technology, and data-driven approaches.
What you'll be doing:
Reporting to the Head of Orchards, you will help our business to turn technical insight, maturity data and trial results into practical recommendations which contribute to orchard and post-harvest performance. Through accurate maturity monitoring, trial execution, data analysis, and the application of scientific and technological tools, you will support evidence‑based harvest decision making within the business.
Your day-to-day work will include:
- Harvest research & maturity science - Collection, analysis, and interpretation of fruit maturity data to inform harvest timing decisions.
- Trial execution & applied R&D - Work with technical managers in the planning, setup, and execution of harvest‑related trials ensuring they are practical and relevant to orchard and post‑harvest operations.
- Data, Technology & Systems Support - Contribute to continuous improvement in how harvest data is collected and analysed by using technology and data systems.
- Technical Support to Orchard & Post‑Harvest Teams - Provide technical support to orchard and post-harvest teams assisting with maturity sampling programmes, scientific measures and technical outputs, ensuring data is available when needed.
- People Leadership - Provide effective leadership, coaching and support to the Laboratory team, creating a positive, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.
What you'll bring:
- You have a tertiary qualification in horticulture, agriculture, plant science, food science, or a related discipline
- Experienced in research, laboratory, technical, quality, or horticultural environments
- Strong analytical capability and a commitment to scientific accuracy and data integrity
- The ability to communicate technical information in practical terms
- A passion for innovation, technology, and continuous improvement
- Previous experience leading or coordinating a team is desirable.
- Eligibility to work in New Zealand and the ability to pass pre-employment checks
What we offer:
- The chance to work alongside experts in orcharding, post-harvest, research, and development
- The opportunity to influence harvest outcomes through science, data, and innovation
- A supportive environment where new ideas and continuous improvement are encouraged
- Exposure to leading horticultural research, technology, and industry partnerships
If you want to be part of a business that delivers world-class science and technical capability alongside world-class apples, then we'd love to hear from you!