Farm Foreperson
Berry Farms NZ
Bay View, Hawkes Bay
Farm Management (Farming, Animals & Conservation)
Full Time
Salary: Add expected salary to your profile for insights
Posted 5 days ago
Application Volume: High
About Berry Farms NZ
Berry Farms NZ is a leading berry production company based in the fertile horticultural region of Hawkes Bay, New Zealand. The company specializes in growing premium-quality strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, supplying fresh berries to both domestic and international markets.
Our berries are proudly sold under the globally recognized Driscoll’s brand, known worldwide for delivering exceptional fruit quality and taste. Through modern farming techniques, careful crop management, and a dedicated team, Berry Farms NZ continues to expand production across multiple sites in the Hawkes Bay region.
With increasing demand and expanding farm operations, we are now seeking a motivated and experienced Farm Foreperson to join our Bay View team.
About the Role
The Farm Foreperson plays a vital leadership role in the day-to-day operations of the berry farm. Reporting directly to the Farm Manager, the successful candidate will assist in managing harvest activities, coordinating farm staff, monitoring productivity, and supporting seasonal crop management.
Berry production is highly seasonal, and our harvest season runs for approximately 10 months each year. As a result, this role is heavily focused on harvest management and operational efficiency.
The position is ideal for someone who enjoys working outdoors, leading teams, and contributing to the success of a fast-paced horticultural operation.
Key Responsibilities
The Farm Foreperson will be responsible for assisting with and overseeing several key aspects of farm operations, particularly during the harvest season.
Key duties include:
Harvest Management
- Coordinating daily harvest operations to ensure berries are picked efficiently and at peak quality.
- Managing pick rotations and scheduling harvest teams across different crop blocks.
- Monitoring harvest performance and ensuring productivity targets are achieved.
- Maintaining harvest costs within allocated budgets.
Staff Supervision and Training
- Supporting the recruitment and supervision of seasonal and contract workers.
- Communicating regularly with labour contractors and harvest teams.
- Training and mentoring Quality Controllers responsible for maintaining product standards.
- Ensuring staff follow correct harvesting procedures and quality standards.
Operational Oversight
- Overseeing all aspects of harvest operations, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
- Monitoring berry quality, crop yield, and operational performance.
- Assisting the Farm Manager with daily planning and operational decision-making.
Machinery Operation
- Safely operating farm equipment including:
- Forklifts
- Tractors
- Hydraladders
- Ensuring machinery is used safely and maintained properly.
Crop Protection and Farm Maintenance
- Assisting with spray applications in accordance with farm management plans and safety regulations.
- Monitoring plant health and reporting any crop issues.
Winter Maintenance Activities
During the off-season, the role includes essential farm maintenance tasks such as:
- Plant removal and replanting
- Pruning berry plants
- Tunnel and infrastructure repairs
- General orchard and farm maintenance
Skills and Experience
To succeed in this role, candidates should have practical farm experience along with the ability to lead teams in a busy horticultural environment.
Preferred qualifications and experience include:
- Previous experience in horticulture, agriculture, or viticulture
- Experience working on berry farms or fruit production operations (advantageous)
- Experience supervising or coordinating farm workers
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Knowledge of harvest operations and productivity monitoring
- Ability to work independently while supporting a team environment
- Experience operating farm machinery such as tractors or forklifts
Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following qualities:
- A strong willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- A hands-on approach and practical mindset
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Strong organisational and time-management abilities
- A positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Flexibility to adapt to seasonal work demands
Work Schedule
Due to the nature of berry harvesting, the role requires flexibility in working hours.
Applicants must be able to:
- Start work early in the morning when required
- Work extended hours during peak harvest periods
- Work weekends when necessary
Harvest periods can be busy, and teamwork is essential to maintain productivity and fruit quality.
Licence Requirements
Applicants must hold:
- A full New Zealand driver’s licence
Additional machinery or forklift licences are beneficial but not mandatory.
Career Development Opportunities
This role offers an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop a long-term career in the horticulture industry.
Working with Berry Farms NZ provides:
- Hands-on experience in large-scale berry production
- Exposure to modern horticultural techniques
- Opportunities to develop leadership and management skills
- Potential career progression within the farming and horticulture sector
How to Apply
If this role sounds like a good fit for your skills and career goals, we encourage you to submit your application along with your CV.
For further information or questions regarding the position, you may contact:
Email: [email protected]
Employer Questions
Your application will include the following questions:
- Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
- How many years of experience do you have as a Farm Foreperson?
- Do you have a current New Zealand driver’s licence?
- What is your expected annual base salary?
- How much notice are you required to give your current employer?
Important Notice
Please be cautious when applying for jobs online. Do not provide your bank account or credit card details during the application process.
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