Tractor and mobile plant operator

Tractor and mobile plant operator

This position involves the operation of a range of horticultural mobile plant and machinery to support year-round kiwifruit orchard production. The operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating tractor-drawn and self-propelled equipment for tasks such as spraying, fertilising, mowing, mulching, cultivating, and supporting crop harvesting activities.

• Operate tractor-drawn and self-propelled horticultural machinery to carry out orchard tasks including spraying, fertilising, mowing, mulching, cultivation, and harvest support.
• Prepare, position, and set up machinery prior to operation, including checking fluid levels, attaching implements, and ensuring machinery is safe and compliant for use.
• Calibrate and adjust machinery settings such as speed, implement height, spray pressure, and application distribution to ensure accurate and efficient operation.
• Operate orchard sprayers to apply crop protection products to vines and orchard rows while avoiding crop damage.
• Operate specialized orchard equipment for strip spraying, mulching, mowing, and general land preparation.
• Drive tractors, bin tractors and forklifts as required during orchard operations and harvest logistics.
• Use mechanical, hydraulic and electrical controls to move materials and operate attachments.
• Conduct daily machinery inspections, minor servicing, cleaning, and basic repairs to ensure optimal plant performance.

• Assist with land cultivation tasks, ground maintenance, and preparation activities using machinery such as mulchers, mowers, spray units, and cultivation implements.
• Perform mechanical orchard tasks such as fertiliser application, spray operations, and machinery-assisted crop management activities.
• Support irrigation installation and maintenance using machinery where required, including trenching, shifting lines, and transporting equipment.
• Erect temporary orchard structures with the assistance of mobile plant where applicable (e.g., lifting posts, transporting materials).
• Support seasonal orchard activities such as thinning, vine work, and harvest operations, prioritising tasks that involve machinery or equipment handling.
• Transport materials, bins, tools, and supplies around the orchard using tractors, forklifts, or other plant.

• Follow all health and safety procedures, including safe machinery operation protocols.
• Participate in toolbox meetings, report hazards, and maintain compliance with workplace safety standards.
• Ensure safe operation of spray machinery, including correct PPE use and adherence to chemical handling guidelines.

• Valid driver license (with no driving convictions (for insurance purposes).
• Two years’ experience in operating agricultural or horticultural machinery such as tractors, spray units, mowers, mulchers, forklifts and trucks, and also experience operating hand tools and hand machinery.
• Ability to work long hours outdoors and operate machinery for extended periods.
• Physically fit and able to safely handle equipment or materials when required.
• Must be able to pass random drug testing.

• Pay rate of $29.66 per hour with a minimum of 30 hours per week (up to 60 hours during peak periods).
• Work spread across 7 days with rotating days off depending on season.
• Work conducted between 7am–6pm, with hours varying by season and daylight.