As our Technical Officer, Protected Cropping you will work in new research infrastructure at the Gatton site of the Queensland Smart Farms Initiative. You will participate in the planning, development and conduct of experimental aspects of research projects dealing with vegetable and fruit crop production. This work will be inside protected cropping structures (for example, greenhouses, glasshouses, polytunnels), outdoors in the field and in the shed and/or laboratory.

Job details

• Under the guidance of supervisor, autonomously conduct regular cropping practices such as pruning, training and harvesting of vegetable and fruit crops in research and demonstration trials involving protected cropping systems in subtropical and tropical climates.
• Prepare research sites to conduct crop evaluations (e.g., setup plant pots with media, irrigation systems and plant support systems).
• Mix fertilisers and prepare nutrient solutions used for irrigating crops. Monitor and adjust irrigation schedules. Measure volumes of solutions delivered to crops and drainage from plant containers. Measure pH, electroconductivity and nutrient concentrations in irrigation solutions using devices.
• Operate technologies (e.g., irrigation controllers and crop monitoring equipment) and make adjustments onsite and remotely to optimise plant production. On-the-job training will be provided.
• Assist with plant pest and disease management through regular monitoring and application of biocontrol agents and/or agricultural chemicals.
• With a hands-on attitude, monitor and maintain equipment used in crop evaluations to ensure it is research ready, safe and reliable. You should be familiar with the use of basic tools.
• Participate in the collection of plant, fruit and other research data recordings and provide this information to the supervisor.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities and inputs. Prepare regular reports summarising activities completed and crop performance updates. This includes use of computer and Microsoft Office software like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Regularly communicate with team members providing updates and discussing crop management options to improve research outcomes.
• Be able to work and communicate with industry stakeholders.
• Actively participate as a member of a multi-skilled team, building effective working relationships with project team members, clients, stakeholders, and departmental staff.
• Be able to work extended hours during periods of crop evaluations and to travel (sometimes for a week) to conduct work activities with colleagues in other research sites (e.g., in north Queensland). This may include working in warm and humid environments.
• Be able to complete work activities that require physical work, such as lifting weights of 15 kg.
• Be familiar with effective and safe use of manual and powered hand tools.
• Be able to complete maintenance work in protected cropping structures and irrigation systems, including fixing plumbing issues.
• Be able to discuss and manage work purchases for research input supplies using a corporate credit card and timely complete associated administrative processes.
• Adhere to the Department's Code of Conduct, including the principles and practices of employment equity, ethical conduct and workplace health and safety.

Applications to remain current for 12 months

Job Ad Reference: QLD/511917/23

Closing Date: Wednesday, 15 November 2023

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 511917 23 Role Description.1. (Word, 634KB)