Our Client
Our client is a large-scale, innovative horticultural business specialising in premium hydroponic berry production, just a 30 minute drive from Timaru.
With a strong focus on technology, sustainability, and quality, they are entering a significant growth phase and are seeking an experienced Irrigation Manager to lead all water, nutrient, and climate control systems across the operation.
With 6 hectares in production this season and expansion plans to grow to 12 hectares next season, this is a key role within a modern, high-tech growing environment.
About the Role
This is a specialist technical role where you will take full ownership of irrigation, fertigation, and environmental control systems across a hydroponic berry operation.
You will play a critical role in optimising crop health, yield, and quality through precision nutrient and climate management, working closely with the Grower Manager and wider production team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing and managing fertigation programmes across crop stages
- Monitoring and adjusting EC, pH, and nutrient balances
- Managing automated irrigation and climate control systems (Priva)
- Maintaining pumps, filters, sensors, and irrigation infrastructure
- Optimising water use, recycling systems, and environmental performance
- Providing technical insight on crop performance and plant health
- Ensuring compliance with NZ environmental and chemical regulations
- Supporting health & safety across irrigation and technical systems
About You
You are a technically strong irrigation or fertigation specialist who thrives in a high-performance growing environment.
You will bring:
- 3+ years’ experience managing automated irrigation/fertigation systems
- Experience in hydroponic, greenhouse, or protected cropping environments
- Strong knowledge of plant nutrition, water chemistry, and climate control
- Experience with Priva systems or similar automation technology
- A proactive, problem-solving mindset with high attention to detail
- Ability to analyse data and make real-time adjustments to optimise crop performance
Preferred:
- Experience working with berries, tomatoes, or soft fruit crops
- Relevant qualification in Horticulture, Agronomy, or Agricultural Engineering
- Understanding of NZ compliance (HSNO, RMA, HSWA)
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary package reflective of technical expertise
- Work in a state-of-the-art hydroponic growing environment
- Join a rapidly expanding horticultural business
- Play a key role influencing crop performance and production outcomes
- AEWV possibilities after WHV
- Long-term opportunity within a progressive and well-backed operation
Waimate
