In Hortifrut we work to be world leaders in the Berries category, we are a multinational company, present in different markets and a reference in the Agrobusiness industry.
We have a clear purpose and strong commitment to sustainable development, inclusion, and non-discrimination, as we understand the value of diversity and multiculturalism as key factors for innovation.
In this opportunity, we are looking for a Senior Agronomist – Raspberry & Blackberry to join our team in Odemira, Portugal.
If you are a passionate, proactive, and responsible person, we invite you to apply.
The Senior Agronomist is responsible for the management of the Breeding Field, monitors plants and ensures that our crops are receiving the adequate irrigation, nutrition, light, ventilation and phytosanitary treatments. Guarantees the field is optimized operationally, safe, efficient, organized and clean. Guarantees the growth and health of raspberry & blackberry crops in the field. Leads and executes experiments related to the physiology, nutrition and phytossanitary asspects of our plants. Leads and oversees the crew activities in the field and ensure that work conditions for field workers are safe and adequate. This position is in contact with other HF Departments such as HUB and Nursery, Development and Production, as well as external and/or governmental entities related to regional regulatory compliance.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Monitors pests and diseases in our fields, which includes scouting pest population and level of severity of diseases
- Schedules phytosanitary and rotation of chemical treatments, along with the tracking of spraying in our database.
- Monitors the quality of irrigation water and fertilizers, which includes collecting samples of water, leaves and substrate and interpreting their results.
- Assists with routine care and maintenance of all plant materials, including plant transfers to/from Nurseries and Hubs. Regional travel may be required.
- Ensures on-time transplanting, management and tracking of seedlings and replicated trials.
- Schedules and coordinates field activities such as harvest, pruning, irrigation, cleaning, and management of field employees are accomplished on time and efficiently.
- Creates and updates the field inventory for checking the condition of tools, materials, machinery as well as the need for calibration and maintenance (Inventory).
- Ensures the organization and maintenance of the site, plans work schedules, maintains a clean and organized facility.
- Assists with accurate data collection from breeding and applied research plots and generates reports about the collected data.
- Plans and executes experiments related to the physiology, nutrition and phytosanitary aspects of our crops.
- Develops protocols for field activities such as calibration of sensors and data collection.
- Designs and controls weekly calendar of field activities, as well as field workers vacation, with the support of Field Supervisor.
- Verifies possible points of improvement, including prevention of accidents, systems of operation and condition of our facilities.
- Organizes, facilitates and provides routinary trainings for field employees.
- Ensures agronomic inputs stay in budget. Collaborates with annual budget preparation, sourcing quotes from providers.
- Collaborates in internal projects such as sustainability, construction, and field tours.
- Collaborates and interacts in projects with other Departments such as HUB & Nurseries, Development and Production, as well as in contact with regional and governamental entities.
- Ensure compliance with the policies, regulations, and procedures established by the company, as well as the standards related to workplace ethics, safety, quality, occupational health, and the environment, to protect the health of workers.
- Perform other duties within their area of competence that are assigned by their immediate supervisor, with the aim of supporting the fulfillment of the department’s objectives.
Who you are:
- Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agronomy, botany, food science, or related field, 2+ years of experience in a similar field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Portuguese mandatory; Good knowledge of English; Spanish is an advantage.
- Solid knowledge and experience working with Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to provide detailed reporting using Excel spreadsheets; GLOBAL GAP Certification is a plus
- Regular and reliable attendance at the primary place of business.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the position. Must be able to lift up to 25 kg.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Spirit of leadership and dynamic aptitude is required.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritize work within set guidelines and follow through on a variety of requests.
- Ability to identify problems as well as manage multiple projects.
- Ability to work with and manage a high level of detailed information.
- Ability to collaborate with other team members and maintain a positive attitude.
- Must be able to exercise good judgment in recognizing scope of authority.
- Must demonstrate professional and ethical business practices, adherence to company values, and a commitment to personal and professional development.
If you suit the requirements, you are interested in taking on new challenges and want to be part of a leading company in its field, we invite you to apply and join our team!
We are waiting for you!
