We are currently seeking a motivated and ambitious Assistant Production Manager / 2IC to join our vegetable farming operation. This is a hands-on role suited to someone who is keen to learn, take responsibility, and grow into a senior production role over time.

Working closely with the Production Manager, you will be involved in all crops, supporting daily production activities, administration, and record keeping. You will also step into the Production Manager role during scheduled weekends and when the manager is on leave.

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting with day-to-day crop production across the farm
• Supporting planning, labour coordination, and machinery operations
• Maintaining accurate and timely production, compliance, and H&S records
• Monitoring crops and reporting issues
• Supervising staff and contractors when relieving the Production Manager
• Abiding by all Health & Safety Policies and procedures.
• Reporting all accidents / incidents, near misses and hazards immediately.
• Actively leading and monitoring H&S initiatives to improve H&S within the workplace.
• Carrying out any additional duties and responsibilities as may be reasonably required to meet the demands of efficient company functioning.

This is an exciting, hands-on role with clear development and progression opportunities. It would suit someone looking to progress their career into a leadership role. Being farm based the role will involve both office and outdoor work. Competitive remuneration based on experience.

About You

Reporting to our Production Manager, you will be a driven individual who can work independently as well as part of a team and will have a strong agriculture or horticulture background.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience in an agriculture or horticulture role
• A strong interest in vegetable production or horticulture
• High motivation, ambition, and a desire for a long-term career in farming
• Previous leadership experience would be preferred
• Willingness to learn, take feedback, and step up when required
• Excellent computer skills with a knowledge of farm management systems preferred
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety with regards to machinery operation and safe work practices
• Good organisation and communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to go the extra mile and get the job done
• Flexible - due to the nature of the industry you must be available to work extended hours and weekends when required

About Us

Oakley’s Premium Fresh Vegetables is a 5th generation family business dedicated to growing, harvesting, packing and delivering the freshest of produce throughout New Zealand. Our company has grown from the desire to always have the best quality and the most consistent supply of product.

Our vision it to be an international grower and supplier of healthy food and to promote a healthy lifestyle. Successful applicants will align with our company values of accountability, sustainability, going the extra mile, respect, innovation, and positive team attitude.

If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, learn, and build a career in vegetable production, we’d like to hear from you.

Please send applications to: hr@oakleys.co.nz