Washington’s largest Opal apple grower is ready to add a high-caliber, experienced grower to its orchard management team. The Orchard Manager will operate one of the company’s main orchard sites. This includes managing crew leaders, coordinating seasonal activities, and working with senior management. We are looking for an experienced horticulturalist. Someone who appreciates the challenges and opportunities associated with young, high-density orchards. We need someone who is also passionate about training and developing high-quality employees. Formal education, technical certificate, and/or extensive work experience in orchard production or management is necessary. Candidates should have at least three years of supervisory work experience. Bilingual communication skills are a plus. This is a year-round position located near the Tri-Cities in Southeast Washington. Some travel is required to service additional growing areas near Benton City and Wallula. Competitive Salary, medical benefits, 401k, and company vehicle. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Orchard Operations.
Strategic responsibilities include:
- Supervise crew leaders and their crew members - This includes planning and implementing daily activities related to fruit production, such as irrigation, crop protection, pruning and harvesting.
- Implement best practices - Working knowledge of conventional and organic horticultural practices to produce high quality, consistent fruit.
- Support and assist in the annual planning process - Participate in the development and implementation of the company’s strategic planning process, including the annual operating and capital expense budgets.
- Develop and train orchard workforce - Actively develop and improve the production skills and expertise of the orchard team.
- Improve productivity, efficiency and use of technology in the orchard - Work to identify annual performance goals for productivity, efficiency, and adoption of technology.
- Track Costs - Working knowledge to forecast and track labor costs of seasonal activities.
- Communication - Ensure consistent and informative communication between all employees and outside partners; manage accurate record keeping and reporting systems.
Desired Qualifications/Requirements:
- At least three years of previous experience supervising a team
- Working knowledge of modern, high-density tree fruit production practices
- Proven ability to build and manage a team-oriented culture
- Strong leadership and decision-making skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to successfully implement and execute projects under pressure
- Proficiency in English and Spanish, a plus
- Familiar and comfortable using Microsoft Office software programs
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Ag Sciences or Management; and/or extensive working experience in tree fruit production.
- WSDA Private Applicator License
Benefits:
- Competitive wages
- Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays
- Medical, dental, vision, long term disability & life insurance are all available with FirstFruits paying a significant portion of the monthly premium
- Onsite medical clinic and daycare
- 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions
