Orchard Assistant Manager at Mr Apple Careers site (Remote)
Role details
Job description
We’re looking for a driven, detail-focused Orchard Assistant Manager to help lead operations at one of our Hastings orchards. If you’re an experienced horticulture professional ready to step into a hands-on role with purpose, pace, and plenty of opportunity, this could be your next move.
What you’ll be doing:
As Assistant Manager, you’ll lead the day-to-day running and ongoing development of the orchard, from improving efficiencies through to coaching and motivating the team to deliver great results. You’ll be actively involved in daily operations, working alongside experienced professionals in a collaborative, practical, and growth-focused environment.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Lead daily orchard operations in close collaboration with the Orchard Manager
- Put company orchard husbandry practices into action to optimise productivity
- Maintain compliance with relevant legislation, industry standards, and internal requirements
- Lead, motivate, and support orchard teams in line with HR policies and procedures
- Champion safe work practices and uphold company Health and Safety expectations
- Induct, and train seasonal and permanent team members
- Use data and technology to enhance orchard practices
What you’ll bring:
- Proven experience in large-scale horticulture and orchard operations
- A confident, practical leadership style with strong supervisory capability
- Good understanding of orchard technologies, systems, and modern growing practices
- Strong communication, time management, and organisational skills
- Experience with machinery operation and basic maintenance
- Knowledge of pest and disease management, chemical use, and best-practice application
What we offer:
- A collaborative work environment where your contribution matters
- The opportunity to influence product quality, innovation, sustainability, and team performance
- Room to grow personally and professionally while becoming a key part of the business
- Company ute and health insurance
- A workplace that values diversity, inclusion, and different ways of thinking
This is a great opportunity to strengthen your horticultural leadership skills while working alongside a knowledgeable and supportive team. We offer competitive remuneration, with medical insurance and a vehicle included as additional benefits for the successful applicant.
If you’re ready to be part of a team helping to shape a progressive future for New Zealand horticulture, we’d love to hear from you.
Why work at Mr Apple Careers site
- Culture: Strong emphasis on being “one team,” with values of integrity, respect, diversity, and continuous improvement. The company celebrates difference and fosters a sense of belonging.
- Work Environment: Based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, with roles spanning orchards, packhouses, coolstores, and a business support office in Whakatu. Roles range from hands-on seasonal work to professional careers in IT, finance, sales, marketing, logistics, and people & culture.
- Growth & Development: Strong commitment to “always growing” — both apples and people. The company invests in training and career development across all teams.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Actively embraces a richly diverse team, with a significant RSE programme bringing workers from Pacific nations. The Head of People & Culture leads a dedicated Health & Safety & Wellbeing team.
- Work Arrangement: On-site roles based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. Roles span seasonal/casual (packhouse, orchard, coolstore) to permanent professional positions (IT, finance, sales, marketing, HR).
- Notable Perks: Being part of a globally recognised brand; working in a beautiful region; opportunity to work across the full apple supply chain; strong focus on employee wellbeing and pastoral care for seasonal workers.