Irrigation Manager

• Challenging yet supported role - work on trees at a variety of stages
• Competitive package inc a house, work ute and training budget (circa $160k pkg)
• Work with brand new irrigation infrastructure on this orchard development

Your Next Employer

This agribusiness is driving large-scale orchard expansion in Victoria with a strong focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Here, tradition blends with cutting-edge methods, and every season brings an opportunity to raise the bar for Australia's agri-sector.

The Role

Step into a role where precision matters. As Irrigation Manager, you’ll take charge of water management across 480ha, with an additional 200ha coming online this year - scaling up to around 700ha in total.

This isn’t just any orchard. With trees at varying stages of maturity, irrigation strategies need to be adaptable, making this an ideal opportunity for a new Irrigation Manager to step in and refine their approach. You’ll be working with cutting-edge irrigation infrastructure, allowing for a smooth transition while optimising water use and tree health.

Working closely with the Orchard Manager, you’ll oversee daily irrigation scheduling, fertigation programs, and system maintenance. This is a hands-on role - you’ll be in the field monitoring performance, troubleshooting leaks, flushing lines, and keeping the infrastructure in top shape. If you know your way around drip irrigation and thrive on practical problem-solving, this is your chance to make a real impact.

Individuals looking to step up into Irrigation Management are also encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain irrigation systems (Goldtech).
• Monitor soil moisture, block pressures, flow rates, and water quality.
• Plan and execute irrigation schedules based on crop demands and historical data.
• Manage fertigation programs and ensure optimal nutrient application.
• Conduct preventative maintenance and troubleshoot system issues.
• Develop maintenance schedules and manuals for irrigation infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with best-in-class safety standards.
• Provide monthly reports on water budgets, fertiliser usage, and irrigation repairs.
• Work closely with orchard manager to align irrigation strategy with crop needs.

What You Bring

We're open to candidates from a range of backgrounds - whether you're an experienced Irrigation Manager looking for a fresh challenge or a senior irrigation technician ready to step up. What matters most is your ability to:

• Take ownership of irrigation systems, managing scheduling, fertigation, and maintenance.
• Get hands-on in the field - fixing leaks, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring optimal water use.
• Apply mechanical know-how, particularly with pumps, pipes, and filtration systems.
• Communicate effectively 
• Stay ahead of best-practice irrigation methods and continuously improve operations.
• Hold a Driver’s Licence and ChemCert accreditation.

What You’ll Gain

• Competitive Package: $90k - $110k + Super + work ute + house (on farm). Circa $160k pkg.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for further career development, plus annual training budget in addition to salary (5% of base). 
• Innovative Work Environment: Work with the latest irrigation tech and best practices.
• Hands-On Role: A mix of fieldwork, problem-solving, and leadership responsibilities.

How to Step Forward

For more information or a confidential chat, please contact Nick Marchant, Director on 0466 333 066.

Who are March

March offers permanent recruitment, workforce planning, and executive search services tailored exclusively to Australian agribusinesses. We align commercial objectives with top talent to unlock the full potential of ag operations.