Second in Charge Orchard Manager

Inglis Packers Ltd – Motueka, South Island Inglis Packers Ltd is a family owned kiwifruit business with over 40 years experience growing, packing, and cooling premium kiwifruit in Mouteka, Tasman. We produce export-quality kiwifruit using modern orchard practices, with a strong commitment to quality, innovation and continuous improvement. Proud of our heritage and passionate about what we do, we strive for excellence in everything we deliver. About the role Join our team as the Second in Charge (2IC) Orchard Manager and play a key role supporting the Orchard Manager in the successful operation or our orchards. You'll help lead day-to-day orchard activities, supervise teams, coordinate seasonal programmes, and ensure work is completed accurately, efficiently and to a high standard. Working under the direction of the Orchard Manager, the 2IC is responsible for helping to execute the programme set by the General Manager and ensuring operations continue smoothly when the Orchard Manager is away or when multiple priorities require additional leadership. If you enjoy leading by example, take pride in producing high-quality fruit, and are looking to progress your career in orchard management, this role offers genuine responsibility, ongoing development, and pathway for future growth. Key responsibilities Carry out and supervise canopy management, pruning, thinning, girdling and crop work to the programme Monitor crop, vine health, irrigation and orchard condition, and report issues to the Orchard Manager Help lead, allocate and supervise orchard staff and seasonal crews day-to-day Train and support crew members, including seasonal workers, in tasks, quality expectations and safe practice Set the pace and standard on the ground, leading by example Maintain health and safety on the orchard — machinery, vehicles, people — and report hazards, incidents and near misses Take day-to-day operational responsibility for the Motueka orchard when the Orchard Manager is absent Keep work running to plan, make sound on-the-ground calls within agreed limits, and elevate anything significant promptly Required Skills & Experience Minimum two years' experience in horticulture, with the desire to progress further. Demonstrated ability to supervise and motivate orchard teams and seasonal crews. Working knowledge of Zespri, Global GAP and relevant compliance requirements preferred Ability to plan and organise work to meet production targets, timeframes and budgets Strong communication, organisational and problem solving skills Current full New Zealand driver's licence Personal Attributes Lead by example with a positive, hands on attitude Reliable, dependable and takes ownership of responsibilities Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality Safety-focused and committed to continuous improvement High standards/attention to detail and methodical about records Applicants MUST be already based in NZ and have the right to work in NZ permanently. This is not a sponsored position. #J-18808-Ljbffr