Careers

Core tasks

• Investigate soil types to see which management techniques help to enhance plant growth whilst conserving the soil.
• Investigate how soil develops, changes, and impacts the land-based ecosystems and surrounding living habitat.
• Identify contaminated or degraded soils and to develop plans that improves their biological, chemical, and physical properties.
• Develop improved techniques for measurement, soil sampling devices, and similar technology.
• Study soil characteristics and classify them on their geographic location, properties and landscape position.
• Experiment with high yielding seeds, their disease resistance, adaptation to soils and nutritional value.
• Monitor the crop from sowing to harvest and make sure there are no pests or diseases.
• Communicate project and research results to other professionals and the public through seminars and workshops.

Core tasks

Core tasks

• Identify and develop new business opportunities within the horticulture sector.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
• Analyse market trends and consumer demand to drive business expansion.
• Develop and implement strategies to diversify product lines and revenue streams.
• Negotiate contracts and manage partnerships to enhance profitability.

Q&A with Ruby Daly

How did your journey start?

I left college when I was 17 because I didn’t really enjoy what I was doing, and I was quite creative, so I needed a creative outlet to go and be creative essentially. So, I went into the beauty industry.

That’s when my parents said that they were thinking of setting up a distillery, and I knew that that was something I definitely wanted to come back to the farm for. I was never coming home to the farm for potatoes. So, I applied for the job, just like every other job applicant. They thought I was a bit young, I was 21 at the time, and they wanted a little bit more life experience, which in hindsight is probably fair. But I came back and helped set up the distillery from the ground up and have been here for nearly 10 years now.

What is the most rewarding part of working in horticulture?

I think it’s seeing the results that we’ve put in every single day and growing the business. I think sometimes we don’t celebrate the wins because there are a lot more losses sometimes.

I think when you have a win, you have a really big win and I think it’s important that we keep pushing this industry forward for the next generation. Me and my siblings, who are in the farm, have a strong view that we’re just gatekeepers for the next generation and I hope that we grow it enough that there’s enough for them all to come back and enjoy as well.

If you’re going to careers night with a room full of grade 10 students, what would you say to them to encourage them to pursue a career in horticulture?

Take a look at it and don’t just dismiss it as a farmer’s job. I think there are so many avenues within this industry. It doesn’t matter what you’re interested in. We can find that avenue for you to work within this industry. I also think we need to change the way we present it to the grade 10s. Because the way it was presented to me is that, you’re a farmer and you’re doing all this hard work, which yes there is that part, but there’s also so many more avenues and so many more exciting parts to it.

There are so many opportunities to grow and to be a part of a business that you may never have thought of. I’ve travelled all around the world as part of this industry, I’ve been to some really amazing places, to Norway, Sweden, Denmark. You just don’t think you get to go to those places if you’re in this industry. I think if that’s something that you want to do, there’s plenty of areas where you can go and travel around the world in this industry.

Core tasks

• Stacking, manoeuvring, and picking products in chiller and freezer rooms with a forklift.
• Sound knowledge of work health and safety (WHS) and goods manufacturing practices (GMP) and procedures.
• Ability to withstand working in a cold room environment ranging from three degrees and up.
• Picking fresh food stock from production line.
• Accurately packing stock.
• Repetitive manual handling.
• Managing a team.
• Time management and data entry.
• Recording produce movement and logistics.

Core tasks

• Collect, process, and analyse large datasets from sensors and agricultural technology.
• Develop predictive models to optimize production, quality control, and resource efficiency.
• Use data visualization tools to present insights that support decision-making.
• Collaborate with growers and industry stakeholders to refine technology solutions based on feedback.
• Ensure data accuracy and integration of advanced analytics into horticulture operations.

Q&A with Daniel Peliccia

What kind of industry in terms of robotics or research is Rubens Technologies in?

We are technology providers in the field of sensors and data analytics for horticulture.

How did you first become interested in horticulture/agriculture?

In fact, I started my career in physics research, so my path to horticulture wasn’t definitely straight. A lot of my work was developing technology solutions for research activities. So, once I moved on from the academic career, I looked at where my skills and expertise can be used. And I was immediately attracted by developing sensors and technologies for agriculture.

What would you say is the most rewarding part of working in horticulture?

I think it’s interacting with people. In this industry, people are authentic, passionate about what they do. You know you don’t see that everywhere, so this is definitely a rewarding part of the job. And, as I said before, we always seek feedback. It’s good to see people tell you what they think and tell you what they need. I think it’s definitely rewarding.

Do you see tech as being quite popular in horticulture at the moment?

Yes. Outsiders are usually blown away by the amount of advanced technology used in production horticulture. Most of us might be familiar with growing some tomatoes in our garden, but when you do production at scale, then obviously technology and data become critical to ensure quality and profitability.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in horticulture?

For young people, if you’re looking for a tech job, definitely look up what opportunities are there in horticulture. I am a technologist, so I would start looking at the opportunities with technology and software providers. Many career paths can lead into this. Even if you’re just interested in software development or data science, knowing how to code or work with data is a great entry point with technology and service providers.

Core tasks

• Design and conduct experiments and develop scientific papers of findings.
• Study the anatomy of insects by observation, dissection, and microscopic examination.
• Investigate the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.
• Examine microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, yeast, and their enzymes, and use the knowledge gained to develop new products, materials, and processes.
• Study the growth and characteristics of microorganisms, such as bacteria, algae and fungi, and the effects they have on plants, animals.

Core tasks

• Manage day-to-day operations of horticultural facilities, including production and storage areas.
• Ensure equipment and machinery are operating efficiently and safely.
• Coordinate teams to maintain facility operations and meet production targets.
• Implement and enforce health, safety, and quality standards.
• Oversee procurement and maintenance of facility equipment and supplies.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure traceability of products.

Core tasks

• Determine, implement, and monitor production strategies, policies, and plans.
• Plan details of production activities in terms of output quality, quantity, cost, time, and labour requirements.
• Oversee the operation of the production plant and quality procedures.
• Monitoring production output and costs and adjusting processes and resources to minimise costs.
• Inform other managers about production matters.
• Oversee the acquisition and installation of new plants and equipment.
• Direct research into production methods and recommend and implement new initiatives.
• Control the preparation of production records and reports.
• Coordinate the implementation of occupational health and safety requirements.
• Direct staff activities and monitor their performance.

Core tasks

Core tasks

• Planning and coordinating the production and marketing of crops from soil preparation to harvest taking into account environmental and market factors.
• Selecting and planting seeds, seedlings, and bulbs, and grafting new varieties to root stocks.
• Maintaining crop production by cultivating, de-budding and pruning, and maintaining optimal growing conditions.
• Organising and conducting farming operations, such as collecting, storing, grading, and packaging produce, and organising the sale, purchase and despatch of produce.
• Directing and overseeing general farming activities such as fertilising and pest and weed control.
• Maintaining farm buildings, fences, equipment, and water supply systems.
• Maintaining and evaluating records of farming activities, monitoring market activity, and planning crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements and market demand.
• Managing business capital including budgeting, taxation, debt, and loan management.
• May select, train, and supervise staff and contractors.
• Develop climate risk management strategies.
• Manage work health and safety processes.

Core tasks

• Harvest produce using hand-picking and machinery.
• Sort, grade, and pack produce for storage or transportation.
• Maintain and clean farming infrastructure and equipment.
• Operate and monitor irrigation and farm technology systems.
• Assist with pest and disease control measures.

A harvest hand plays a crucial role in gathering crops, ensuring produce is picked, graded, and packed according to quality standards. This seasonal position can provide a pathway into full-time farming roles. Harvest hands work with manual and mechanical harvesting methods and assist with farm maintenance.

. With experience and dedication, workers can progress from a Harvest Hand or Picker to a Leading Hand, taking on more responsibility in supervising teams and coordinating farm operations.

Core tasks

• Manage planting, irrigation, and crop nutrition.
• Supervise staff and daily farm operations.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.
• Coordinate harvesting, packaging, and transportation.
• Develop and implement efficient farm processes.

Core tasks

• Monitoring and identifying plants pests and disease.
• Checking spray systems functioning.
• Investigating the chemical structure and function of living cells in plants and microorganisms.
• Investigating the effects of environmental factors on plant grown such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography, and disease.
• Studying the forms and structures of plant tissues by systematic observation, dissection, and microscopic examination.

Core tasks

Irrigation is an essential part of modern horticulture and agriculture, ensuring crops receive the right amount of water and nutrients to thrive. Professionals in this field design, manage, and maintain effective irrigation systems, without which crop yields can suffer, affecting the entire agricultural supply chain. Professionals in irrigation help ensure optimal plant growth, contributing to food security and efficient resource use.

Core Roles:

• Irrigationist
• Irrigation Manager
• Irrigation Designer
• Irrigation Assistant
• Fertigation

Core tasks

Manage and maintain agricultural machinery for optimal performance and safety.
Diagnose and repair faults in engines, transmissions, and mechanical components.
Develop maintenance schedules and respond to machinery breakdowns.
Operate and oversee the use of tractors, harvesters, and processing equipment.
Train staff on machinery operation, maintenance, and safety protocols.

Specialising in agricultural machinery involves operating, maintaining, and repairing essential equipment used in crop production, processing, and transportation. This field offers a dynamic work environment, combining hands-on technical work with equipment management to ensure efficiency, safety, and productivity in farming operations.

Machinery Manager
Machinery Supervisor
Machinery Assistant
Ag Technician

Core tasks

Plan, develop, and organise advertising policies and campaigns to support sales objectives.
Advise executives and clients on advertising strategies and campaigns to reach target markets, creating consumer awareness, and effectively promoting the attributes of goods and services.
Coordinate the production of advertising campaigns involving specialised activities, such as artwork, copywriting, media scripting, television and film production and media placement, within time and budget constraints.
Interpret and predict current and future consumer trends.
Support business growth and development through the preparation and execution of marketing objectives, policies, and programs.
Commission and undertake market research to identify market opportunities for new and existing goods and services. Analyse consumer preferences and patterns data.
Advise on all elements of marketing such as product mix, pricing, advertising, and sales promotion, selling, and distribution channels.

A marketing manager identifies market opportunities and advises on the development, coordination, and implementation of plans for pricing and promoting horticultural produce.

They will also conduct research and collect data on potential demand and market characteristics for produce. By using consumer patterns and preference data, they will be able to forecast market changes and new opportunities for promotion.

Core task

• Detect and diagnose mechanical and electrical faults in engines and parts.
• Dismantle and remove engine assemblies, transmissions, steering mechanisms, and other components, and check parts.
• Repair and replace worn and defective parts and reassemble mechanical components.
• Perform scheduled maintenance services, such as oil changes, lubrications, and engine tune-ups, to achieve smoother running of vehicles and ensure compliance with pollution regulations.
• Test and adjust mechanical parts after being repaired for proper performance.
• Diagnose and test parts with the assistance of computers.
• Inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or detailed work required to achieve roadworthiness.

Core tasks

Core tasks

Work with company executives to develop and monitor production strategies, policies, and plans.
Plan details of production activities in terms of output quality, quantity, cost, time, and labour requirements.
Oversee the production operations and quality procedures.
Monitor production outputs and costs, and adjust processes to minimise costs.
Communicate and collaborate with other managers about production plans and processes.
Research new and alternative production methods for testing.
Control the preparation of production records and reports.
Coordinate the implementation of occupational health and safety requirements.
Oversee staff activities and monitor their performance.

Core tasks

• Diagnose plant diseases through laboratory analysis, microscopy, and molecular techniques.
• Conduct research to develop new disease management strategies for horticultural crops.
• Advise growers, agronomists, and government agencies on disease prevention and treatment.
• Support biosecurity by identifying and managing exotic plant pathogens.
• Analyse plant samples submitted from farms, research institutions, and regulatory bodies.

Q&A with Ossie Wildman

How did you first get into this field?

My first experiences in this field began whilst studying science at university. Additionally, my dad is a mycologist, so there was also exposure to science prior to commencing my studies at university too.

What was your career progression like?

After high school, I applied to study a Bachelor of Science degree at Western Sydney University (WSU), Hawkesbury campus. During my first year, I did very well, and at the end of that year, they offered me a position in the advanced science course. This program allowed me the opportunity to be paired with a senior lecturer each semester.

Once I completed my bachelor’s degree (majoring in microbiology), I then pursued an Honours degree, which focused on developing molecular diagnostics for citrus viroids.During my Honours degree, I spent time completing research work at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI), and at the WSU Hawkesbury campus.

Once I had completed my Honours degree, a job opportunity became available at the NSW DPIRD as a Technical Officer working on a research project related to developing molecular markers for pest resistance in wheat. After some time in that role, a position became available at the NSW DPIRD working in diagnostic plant pathology, which I applied for, and have been working in this area since then. I have been working in diagnostic plant pathology for about eight years now, with over five years of this being in my current role as a Diagnostic Plant Pathologist.

What does a day in your life look like?

It is quite a varied role. In general, the two main parts of my day are laboratory-based tasks and administrative tasks.

We receive a wide variety of diagnostic samples. These can be submitted by government agencies, farmers, agronomists, large companies, or even home gardeners. Many samples are received for general diagnostic screening to determine whether a pathogen is causing disease in an individual plant or crop, and if so, to determine the identity of the pathogen responsible. Some samples are received from our wider NSW DPIRD team, and these may be biosecurity-related for diagnostic or surveillance purposes. We also sometimes receive samples from other laboratories for secondary confirmation. Additionally, other samples may be screened for export certification purposes, and we also conduct import screening of Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae seed material entering Australia and undergoing mandatory screening.

The lab-based work we conduct involves a range of techniques, including observations of symptomology, plants tissue dissections, traditional microbiological culturing, microscopy, electron microscopy, molecular diagnostics, and ELISA.

The administrative side of my job includes calling and emailing clients, writing reports, and reviewing images of plants sent in with inquiries about potential pathogens. I also discuss results with clients and collaborate with colleagues from interstate government departments and the Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. It is a very diverse role, and I enjoy that aspect of it.

What advice would you give to someone considering working in horticulture? Would you recommend this industry?

There is a huge range of jobs in horticulture and agriculture more broadly. Speaking from the perspective of plant pathology, there is not really a formally prescribed pathway. However, for my role, completing university studies in microbiology were critical in allowing me to work in the position I do today. As the horticultural and agricultural industry is so diverse, there are a lot of different avenues and courses that someone can pursue depending on their specific interests.

Core tasks

• Ensure scheduled crops for intended harvest have passed the withholding period.
• Ensure that all specialised harvest equipment is maintained.
• Ensure correct harvest to suit conditions of crop, soil moisture and variety to minimise any mechanical damage.
• Liaise with farm operation manager / shed production manager / maintenance supervisor.
• Ensure quality of harvest throughout harvest period to minimise damage.
• Identify and report unusual disease or plant pest signs.
• Transport and store chemicals.
• Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds, and diseases.
• Implement a post-harvest program.
• Establish horticultural crops.
• Carry out emergency disease or plant pest control procedures at infected premises.
• Operate chemical application machinery and equipment.
• Coordinate work site activities.
• Perform shed nursery activities.
• Regulate crops.

Core task

• Selecting and planting seeds and seedlings.
• Maintaining crop production by cultivating, de-budding and pruning, and maintaining optimal growing conditions.
• Organising and conducting farming operations, such as collecting, storing, grading, and packaging produce.
• Directing and overseeing general farming activities such as fertilising, pest and weed control.
• Maintaining farm buildings, fences, equipment, and water supply systems.
• Organising the sale, purchase, and dispatch of produce.
• Planning crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements.
• Monitoring market activity and demand.
• Managing business capital including budgeting, taxation, debt, and loan management.
• May select, train, and supervise staff and contractors.
• Establish and monitor hydroponic crops.
• Plan a growing-on and propagation program.
• Develop a horticultural production plan.
• Identify risk and apply risk management processes.
• Monitor the implementation of quality and food safety programs.

Core task

• Must be knowledgeable of all state and federal regulations for the product being produced.
• Responsible for the quality control aspects of raw materials and finished products.
• Ensure weekly swabs/samples are taken and sent for testing. Acts on any swabs/ samples that come back with non-compliance levels.
• Maintain the corporate quality manual and quality records.
• Review and report the principle causes of quality loss and nonconformance.
• Arrange, coordinate, and participate in external quality audits.
• Implement and maintain the quality management systems and ensure continuing compliance to relevant quality standards are implemented and maintained.

Core task

• Develop and implement sales strategies to increase market share and profitability.
• Identify and pursue new domestic and international trade opportunities.
• Negotiate contracts with buyers, suppliers, and distributors.
• Ensure compliance with export regulations and quality standards for international markets.
• Manage customer relationships and provide excellent service to maintain and grow business.
• Analyse market trends and adjust strategies to meet changing demands.

Core task

• Coordinate and supervise a team of staff to undertake daily tasks in allocated section.
• Assist with training and assessments of pack house employees.
• Arrange external contractors.
• Ensure all staff adhere to Total Quality Management, Food Safety, OHS and Personal Hygiene guidelines and practices.
• Liaise with Agronomist / Agricultural Technician / Farm Operation Manager regarding crop treatments.
• Ensure all methods of crop treatments are done as per standard procedures.
• Help with pre-plant fertiliser application, broadcasting of fertiliser and boom spraying of chemicals.
• Use a forklift to load/ unload produce on/ off trucks and in/ out of packing shed/ cool room.
• Ensure all documentation matches load and delivery/ despatch requirements.
• Assist with completion of daily weight checks and pack house preoperational checks.
• Assist with weekly cleaning program.

Core tasks

• Develop and implement sustainability strategies to improve resource efficiency.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.
• Identify and manage projects to reduce waste, energy consumption, and water usage.
• Collect, analyse, and report sustainability metrics to retailers and government bodies.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate sustainable practices across operations.

Core task

• Liaise with growers, facility managers, cold chain management staff, markets, and other drivers to ensure timely delivery and processing.
• Assist with loading and unloading produce using lifting and tipping devices.
• Maintain temperature control of the truck/ container.
• Undertake regular quality checks of vehicles to ensure they can be driven safely.
• Ensure goods are stowed and securely covered to prevent loss and damage.
• Maintain appropriate records.