Irrigation Supervisor | Emerald

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Reporting to the Farm Manager, you’ll take ownership of irrigation across the orchard. This is a paddock-first role. You’re out on the property daily, checking performance, diagnosing faults, and ensuring every zone is doing what it should.

The orchard has seen significant recent investment - fully converted to sprinkler irrigation, with upgraded pumps and mainlines, and a MAIT automation system now embedded across the operation. It’s a well-resourced setup with clear systems, an experienced Farm Manager, and a team that takes pride in the property.

The culture is open and practical. You’re expected to lead from the front, explain the “why”, and contribute to how things are done, not just follow instructions.

The Role

Reporting to the Farm Manager, you’ll take ownership of irrigation across the orchard. This is a paddock-first role, you’re out on the property daily, checking performance, diagnosing faults, and ensuring every zone is doing what it should.

You’ll operate and program the MAIT system, maintain Amiad filtration, and handle repairs across mains and sub-mains. You’ll also manage parts procurement and keep critical spares on hand to avoid downtime.

Irrigation scheduling currently sits with the Farm Manager, but there’s clear scope to take that on as you build capability and trust.

You’ll lead a small irrigation team of up to three during peak season (August to December). The role requires organisation, attention to detail across variable soils, and a leadership style that builds capability — not just compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Run Irrigation Systems: Operate and program the MAIT system daily, ensuring accurate coverage across the orchard and consistent system performance.
• Maintain Infrastructure: Monitor pump stations and maintain Amiad filtration, sprinkler components, and mainline infrastructure, addressing faults quickly and effectively.
• Lead the Team: Direct daily work programs for irrigation staff, verify task completion, and build capability through clear communication and practical coaching.
• Manage Data & Reporting: Review usage data from MAIT, maintain accurate records of water use, and support weekly reporting with the Farm Manager.
• Drive Safety & Standards: Follow OHS procedures, ensure correct PPE use, and contribute to a proactive, accountable safety culture.
• Improve System Performance: Identify opportunities to lift irrigation efficiency, manage consumables and spare parts, and contribute to operational planning.

What You Bring

You’re a hands-on irrigator with the technical depth to run a modern system and the leadership to guide a small team.

You’ll ideally bring:

• Experience operating MAIT or a comparable irrigation automation system
• Proven ability repairing PVC mains, sub-mains, and sprinkler systems (or similar irrigation infrastructure)
• Clear communication skills and a current Driver’s Licence

Desirable:

• Experience in macadamias or tree cropping (citrus, almonds, olives, stone fruit, or similar)
• Exposure to automated irrigation systems at scale

Candidates looking to step up into a supervisory role are encouraged to apply.

What You'll Gain

• Package: $85k - $95k (neg) + Super + 10% bonus + fully maintained vehicle.
• Housing: 3-bed on-farm house with electricity included.
• Support: Work alongside an experienced Farm Manager who invests in the people he works with.
• Lifestyle: Based near Emerald in Queensland's Central Highlands - a genuine regional community.
• Career Growth: Real scope to take on irrigation scheduling as you develop in the role.

How to Step Forward

For more information or a confidential chat, please contact Nick Marchant, Director, on 0466 333 066 or Lemuel Cruz, Talent Specialist, on 0468 093 444.

Who Are March

March offers permanent recruitment and workforce-planning services tailored exclusively for Australian agribusinesses. We’re about connecting top talent with great businesses - plain and simple.