Beekeeper - Kerikeri

Manuka Health is a high performing team of 200 people and about 1.5 billion bees, working together to become the leading Manuka honey company globally. At the heart of our collective effort is a culture of care. We care deeply about our people, products, consumers, communities, environment, and our impact on the world. Our vertically integrated business starts at the source with a dedicated beekeeping and land management division, specialized extraction, processing, packing, and testing facilities, and highly experienced sales, marketing, operations, and leadership teams. Through our secure supply chain, rigorous quality control and collective expertise we produce and deliver our trusted New Zealand bee products to over 45 countries worldwide. We have an ambitious growth strategy to sustainably grow our business and New Zealand's Manuka honey industry for the betterment of people and the planet. The role We are looking for a beekeeper to join our beekeeping operation based in Northland. This role will be required to assist with the success and growth of the regional apiculture operation. To pursue the highest standards of beehives, land management, and beekeeping practices. To assist with the mentorship and growth of other beekeepers, which report both directly and indirectly to the Apiary manager. Some key job responsibilities include: Identify and control hive diseases and maintain good beehive hygiene Assess the strength of beehives and report findings To assess and control hive swarming, report, and take appropriate actions as necessary Complete hive manipulations, including locating and replacing queens To feed and record food storage of hives To make up nucleus colonies to recover any losses To efficiently super hives in production, reading the bloom correctly and using the correct amount of honey supers to maximise box weights and honey production To efficiently pull honey from beehives to ensure maximum crop value is achieved To efficiently move hives during hours of darkness To effectively winter down hives in preparation for winter Our ideal beekeepers will have the following attributes and skills: Strong knowledge of apiary operations and honey production processes Ability to safely operate specialised lifting equipment (e.g., truck-mounted cranes or similar systems) Proficiency in mapping tools and IT systems for data management Experience with accurate data entry and maintaining operational records Effective communication skills for coordinating between team members and management to assess hive health and productivity The want and drive to create strong and healthy hive Have a full class 1 license and be confident driving off-road As an experienced beekeeper you will be aware that we require flexibility to work longer hours in the season and travel away from home when required Willingness to get “stuck in” immediately and fill all beekeeping requirements Attention to detail and reputation of doing it right the first time Physically strong and fit and energetic If you do not meet all the above criteria – we would still love to hear from you! If you: Have a strong work ethic Have a minimum Full Class 1 driver’s license Have a passion for the industry Are hardworking and reliable Flexible and committed to getting the job done In return we will offer you: Southern Cross Healthcare insurance Recognition of Service with the company – awards for staff that reach milestone anniversaries The opportunity to join a great company Working with great people who are growing a successful beekeeping operation On the job training and development opportunities Applicants for this position are required to have a current NZ work visa, or to be a New Zealand resident, currently based within New Zealand. #J-18808-Ljbffr