Eng. Agronomo

Sustainably Producing Quality British Berries

Blueberry Grower, United Kingdom

Area of Responsibility: To increase the yield and add value to the main blueberry growing processes involved in soft fruit production. Deliver crops at times required by the market with berries that look and taste great, delight the customer, are fast to pick, and have minimum wastage.

Reporting to: The Farm Manager

Location: Colworth Farm, Colworth, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 2DX

Contract: Permanent position based in the United Kingdom

Start date: as soon as possible

Key Responsibilities:

 Day to day growing responsibility for both protected and outdoor grown blueberries, both in pre-production and production stages

 Timely implementation of all tasks and growing operations to a very high standard - driven by clear understanding of plant stage, plant physiology, current and expected climate conditions and disciplined planning

 Clear vision of ultimate goal delivered through a clear strategy and 'green finger' approach

 Plant care including pest management, irrigation, weed control, feeding, pruning, supporting and training.

 Climate management including ventilation, use of shade net, wind breaks, different poly types

 Fertility and substrate management and selection

 Take the lead in using fertigation systems to maximize crop health, growth and yields

 Crop Walking with agronomists and technical team to minimize yield losses from P&D and maximize productivity potential

Applicants: Must have relevant qualification in agronomy, horticulture, or food production and a minimum of three years commercial growing experience, preferably with Blueberries. Experience of protected cropping including irrigation and ventilation, and frost protection is essential.

The ideal candidate will have both the knowledge and confidence to make independent decisions on a day to day basis and the ability to take responsibility for such decisions. Must speak English, be computer literate and be able to work both individually or in a team.

The successful applicant will have an enthusiastic approach and possess a strong interest in learning and self-development, with a desire to fast track their career. They will operate confidently; have well developed communication skills and a passion for plants and growing.

Applying: If you would like to know more about this opportunity then please submit a current CV, together with a covering letter describing your suitability for the role to Viliana Ignateva, Recruitment Manager at viliana.ignateva@hallhunter.co.uk

Closing date for applications: 30th August 2016

This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious Grower to join one of the UK's most progressive fresh berry producers, offering long term career opportunities (www.hallhunter.co.uk)