Agronomy Assistant

Job description

Workers may perform one or more of the following tasks, depending on the daily needs of the operation:
Trial Implementation: Implement trial plans and plant management protocols as instructed by the agronomist to ensure consistent and accurate data collection for upcoming varieties.
Trial Block Setup: Maintain trial blocks according to the trial block plan and under the guidance of the Manager, adhering to all OZBlu SOPs and protocols.
General Maintenance: Ensure trial blocks are always presentable to customers and growers.
Weeding: Conduct weekly cleaning and weeding around the trial block, pumphouse, and office.
Seasonal Variety Data Collection:
• Flowering Season: Perform weekly data collection, including counting closed and open flowers.
• Harvest Season: Conduct fruit size-banding and flower-to-fruit tracking on selected varieties.
Scouting: Monitor for pests weekly to prevent infestations. Report any findings to the agronomist or production team. Keep records of spray applications.
Irrigation & Fertigation:
• Record daily drip and drain measurements (season-dependent).
• Adjust irrigation plans as instructed.
• Mix fertilizer tanks per the agronomy plan and keep accurate records.
• Maintain the irrigation system by regularly flushing lines, cleaning pump filters, and checking dripper placement and function.
• Keep records of irrigation water and fertilizer usage throughout the harvest season.
Harvest Planning:
• Clean, maintain, and audit harvest materials (e.g., lugs, picking buckets) through regular stock take. Plan for replacement when necessary.
• Ensure sample and storage materials are labeled and ready for fruit packaging/storage before harvest.
• Flag data collection points in-field prior to peak production harvest periods.
• Ensure fruit is allocated to cold storage on time per OZBlu standards.
• Assist in sample preparation for customer visits or export.

Crop Husbandry: Perform pruning, thinning, and skirting of plants as instructed

Follow all H-2A program regulations and safety guidelines during daily operations.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment to ensure the safety of all team members.

Special Requirements

Variable weather conditions. All work must be performed in a manner that exhibits generally Accepted Practices (GAP) and the utmost food safety at all times.
The candidate must have at least 3-months of agricultural experience, related explicitly as an Agricultural Assistant related to the job duties described.
Verifiable work experience is required.
The worker must attend the required orientation, which time will be compensated.