Irrigation and Plant Health Manager

About the role

This is a newly created role, with the opportunity to make it your own - it's central to the success of this premium blueberry operation, where getting water, plant health, and environmental conditions right has a direct impact on crop quality and business performance. Irrigation and fertigation must be carefully managed which means timing, accuracy, and close attention are critical to keeping the crop healthy and productive. You'll manage irrigation, fertigation, and venting using modern tunnel systems and Priva technology, making time-sensitive decisions based on climate/weather conditions. This is a role where details matter. Any issues need immediate attention, and small problems can quickly become major ones if they are missed. You'll be responsible for plant health, managing pest and disease pressures, and making sure the right action is taken quickly. Reporting to the Berry Manager, you'll work closely with the Production Manager and lead the crew who help carry out this work, bringing structure to the day, coordinating tasks, and supporting the team to get harvesting and maintenance tasks completed timely. It's a great fit for someone who enjoys structure, likes working closely with others, and takes pride in leading consistent, high-quality work that supports a strong crop outcome. Pāmu Landcorp Farming Limited is a State-Owned Enterprise with over 110 farms across New Zealand. Our purpose is to lead the delivery of innovative and sustainable agriculture and horticulture solutions for future generations. Pāmu's Northland Blueberries 12-hectare tunnel operation sits alongside our 70-hectare avocado orchard in Kerikeri, right in the heart of the Far North. It's a key part of Pāmu's growing horticulture business, producing both avocados and berries in a region known for its sunshine, mild climate, and strong growing conditions. LIVE IN KERIKERI Living in Kerikeri means enjoying a relaxed lifestyle with beautiful beaches, bush walks, and swimming spots close by. The town has great cafés, markets, and a friendly community feel, making it an easy place to settle in and build a life. It's the kind of place where you can finish work and be at the beach, on a trail, or at a local eatery within minutes - a perfect mix of work, nature, and balance. ABOUT YOU You bring solid experience in irrigation, fertigation, plant health, glasshouse, tunnel house, or indoor growing systems. You know how to monitor conditions, respond quickly when something is off, and make sound decisions that protect plant performance and crop quality. You like structure and planning, but you're also able to act quickly when conditions change. You're comfortable working in a role where timing matters, priorities can shift with the weather, and issues need immediate attention. Ideally, you'll have: Priva (or similar) experience Tractor & sprayer experience Growsafe certification Approved Handler certification We're proud to have a supportive and inclusive culture at Pāmu, and we encourage applications from people who share our values - even if you don't tick every box .