Applied Research Manager - Dargaville

The Opportunity**

If you’re excited by the idea of shaping the future of berry crops through hands-on research, join us as our hands-on Applied Research Manager.

This is your chance to carve out a brand-new role in a growing orchard operation, where your work will directly shape the future of berry production. Based in the picturesque Bay of Islands, you’ll enjoy a workplace that’s as inspiring as it is innovative, with a supportive team and endless opportunities to make an impact.

This isn’t your typical desk job—this dynamic role puts you at the heart of our research block, where you’ll be out in the field, working directly with strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries. You’ll lead groundbreaking trials of new berry genetics, turning innovative ideas into practical solutions that drive Pamu’s commercial success.

With no two days alike, you’ll be immersed in a role that’s as varied as it is fascinating, combining outdoor fieldwork, team collaboration, and strategic problem-solving.

**What You’ll Do**

Get Out in the Field: Spend significant time outdoors, conducting fieldwork like planting, monitoring crop health, and collecting data—perfect for those who love being active and engaged.

Supervise and Support: Manage one direct report, and seasonal staff as required, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.

**About Us**

Pamu is the brand name for Landcorp Farming Limited. Pamu stands for best practice in sustainable and safe farming, and for the unique provenance of New Zealand foods, nutrition products and fibre on global markets. We chose the Maori word ‘Pamu’ for its literal meaning ‘to farm’ and also to reflect the Maori concept of guardianship of the environment.

**About You**

You are practical, results-driven with a strong background in horticulture or applied research, and you're ready to take ownership of a hands-on leadership role.

• Proven experience working with berry crops (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries) and managing field trials.
• Hands-on expertise in planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops, as well as collecting and analysing trial data.
• Experience bringing research findings into practical, actionable insights that support business growth.
• Strong leadership skills, including experience managing or mentoring a small team.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and a commitment to innovation in horticulture.
• Physical capability and willingness to engage in fieldwork as a key part of the role.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in horticulture, agriculture, or plant science (or equivalent practical experience).

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real impact, be part of an expanding operation, and enjoy a mix of office and outdoor work, we’d love to hear from you!

**Benefits**

At Pamu we offer a competitive salary package with additional benefits, including health and life insurance, up to 4% KiwiSaver matching, an extra day of leave over Christmas, and enhanced parental leave benefits, as well as ongoing training and development.

**Apply Now**

Please submit a cover letter along with your CV to explain your interest in the role and how your skills and experience align with this role. Applications close **Sunday 01 June 2025**. we will be interviewing applicants as they apply, so please don't wait.

For more details about the role, please email Matt Hayward – Horticulture Business Manager: kapiroavocados@landcorp.co.nz.

**To be eligible for this role, you must be available for an in-person interview and have unrestricted legal rights to work in New Zealand. We are unable to accept applicants on temporary work visas for permanent opportunities.**

Pamu provides a safe workplace and the successful applicant will be required to pass a drug and alcohol test and undergo a criminal background check prior to being appointed.