Nursery Manager

The Company:

The Victorian Strawberry Industry Certification Authority (VSICA) is a not-for-profit, independent organisation, which was established in 1995 by the then Victorian Department of Agriculture for the benefit of the strawberry industry. VSICA manages the Victorian Strawberry Runner Certification Scheme (the Scheme), which is a highly bio-secure system for multiplying strawberry plants. The Scheme has operated successfully since the early 1960s, making it one of the longest running worldwide. 

The certification process is underpinned and regularly updated based on robust scientific research.

VSICA provide three key services:

• the maintenance of a pathogen-tested nucleus collection
• the production of high health foundation plug plants
• inspection of mother and certified runner crops grown at Toolangi to ensure compliance with the Scheme.

The Role:

The role of Nursery Manager is a largely autonomous role and will involve:

• Approx 80% of time will be spent on producing and maintaining plants and 20% on administration
• Growing over 50 strawberry varieties at their Toolangi site  
• Training and working with casual staff during busy periods
• Reporting to the Board, and liaising with the Chair
• Business administration including organising board meetings, taking minutes, invoicing and managing the budget
• With a major focus on plant health and growth, that includes:        
  • Implementing and maintaining hygiene protocols
  • Propagation of high health strawberry plants
  • Implementing and managing irrigation/fertiliser/pest control programs
  • General upkeep and maintenance of nursey irrigation systems and boom sprays

The Person:

We are very interested to speak to you if you believe you have the following:

• 5+ years’ experience in nursery/crop production/propagation with proven results at a managerial level
• Qualification or certificate in horticulture/plant science/agriculture will be well regarded
• High attention to detail and time management skills
• Strong planning and organisational skills and an ability to work autonomously
• Sound written and verbal communication skills

This is an autonomous role where you will be responsible for the nursery operations, with the majority of your time spent outdoors/glass houses using your practical and problem-solving skills. You will be extremely capable in regard to the health and management of plants.

This is a great opportunity to lead and develop an established operation with a flexible work arrangement negotiable for the right candidate who is looking for a balanced hands-on secure role. A remuneration package in line with the requirements and seniority of the role will be negotiated with the successful applicant. To enquire please contact Katrina Bruce or Ryan Hoiberg on 1300 380 701 or apply via www.rimfireresources.com.au with a resume and cover letter.