Research & Development (R&D) and Lab Manager

Research & Development (R&D) and Lab Manager 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. Whatyou'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. Throughaccuratematurity monitoring, trial execution, data analysis, and the application of scientific and technological tools, you will supportevidence‑based harvest decision making within the business. Your day-to-day work will include: Harvestresearch &maturityscience-Collection, analysis, and interpretation of fruit maturity data to inform harvest timing decisions. Trial execution & applied R&D - Work with technical managers intheplanning, setup, and execution of harvest‑related trialsensuring they arepractical and relevant to orchard and post‑harvest operations. Data, Technology & Systems Support-Contribute to continuous improvement in how harvest data is collected andanalysedby usingtechnology 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 capabilityand a commitment to scientific accuracy and data integrity Theability tocommunicatetechnical information inpractical terms A passion for innovation,technology,and continuous improvement Previous experience leading or coordinating a team is desirable. Eligibility to work in New Zealand andtheability 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 wherenew ideasand continuous improvement are encouraged Exposure to leading horticultural research,technology,and industry partnerships #J-18808-Ljbffr