Ready to harvest your passion for cherries and outdoor work? Join us as an Orchard Technician!
 

About the role:

We are seeking motivated and reliable Cherry Tree Pruners to join our horticultural team for the pruning season. The successful candidates will play an important role in maintaining tree structure, health, and productivity to ensure high-quality fruit for the upcoming harvest.

This is a hands-on role in a dynamic outdoor environment and requires physical fitness, attention to detail, and a commitment to working safely and efficiently.

Employment Type: Casual or Fixed-Term (depending on candidate and visa status)

About the job:

• Prune cherry trees according to orchard guidelines and seasonal requirements

• Maintain tree structure to optimise fruit quality and long-term productivity

• Use pruning tools safely and efficiently

• Work across multiple orchard sites as required

• Meet quality and productivity targets under a piece rate system

• Follow all health and safety procedures and contribute to a safe working environment

• Work collaboratively with team members and supervisors to complete seasonal pruning programmes

Hours:
Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm (subject to weather conditions)

Pay:
This is a piece rate position (paid per tree pruned). Workers have the opportunity to earn above the hourly minimum depending on performance. If piece rate earnings fall below the minimum wage, pay will be topped up to $23.50 per hour in accordance with legal requirements.

About you:

• Physically fit and able to work full days outdoors

• Comfortable working in varying weather conditions

• Reliable, punctual, and able to commit to the pruning season

• Good attention to detail and able to follow instructions

• Team-oriented with a positive attitude

• Previous pruning or orchard experience is an advantage, but not essential (training can be provided)

• Own transport is preferred, as work may be across different orchard sites

Please note: You must be legally able to work in New Zealand. We cannot provide support in obtaining a visa.

About us and your benefits:

Central Orchard Management Limited provides comprehensive orchard management services and grows premium cherries for both local and international markets. We deliver high-quality service across all aspects of cherry production, including orchard establishment, pruning, fertilising, spraying, and complete harvest solutions. Based in the heart of Central Otago, we offer:

• Supportive and dynamic work environment

• Competitive earnings with opportunity to maximise income under piece rates

• Potential for ongoing seasonal work

• A workplace that values teamwork, reliability, and strong work ethic

• A team that has your back and makes work a place you want to be

If you would like to be part of a business that grows the best people as well as the best cherries, please apply by providing your CV.