Irrigation Technician
Mills Recruitment
Description
Own irrigation, fertigation & climate systems in high-tech hydroponics
Hands-on with Priva automation in a precision growing setup
Long-term role in a fast-growing, tech-driven horticulture business
Our Client
Our client is a large-scale, innovative horticultural business specialising in premium hydroponic berry production, just a 30 minute drive from Timaru. With a strong focus on technology, sustainability, and quality, they are entering a significant growth phase and are seeking an Irrigation Technician to lead all water, nutrient, and climate control systems across the operation. With an initial 6 to 12 hectares in production planned for this season and expansion plans for substantial growth, this is a key role within a modern, high-tech growing environment.
About the Role This is a specialist technical role where you will take full ownership of irrigation, fertigation, and environmental control systems across a hydroponic berry operation. You will play a critical role in optimising crop health, yield, and quality through precision nutrient and climate management, working closely with the Farm Manager and wider production team.
Key responsibilities include:
Designing and managing fertigation programmes across crop stages
Monitoring and adjusting EC, pH, and nutrient balances
Managing automated irrigation and climate control systems (Priva)
Optimising water use, recycling systems, and environmental performance
Providing technical insight on crop performance and plant health to maximise yield and fruit quality
Ensuring compliance with NZ environmental and chemical regulations
Supporting health & safety across irrigation and technical systems
About You
You are a technically strong irrigation or fertigation specialist who thrives in a high-performance growing environment. You will bring:
Experience managing automated irrigation/fertigation systems
Experience in hydroponic, greenhouse, or protected cropping environments
Knowledge of plant nutrition, water chemistry, and climate control
Experience with Priva systemsor similar automation technology
A proactive, problem-solving mindset with high attention to detail
Ability to analyse data and make real-time adjustments to optimise crop performance
Have an understanding of NZ compliance (HSNO, RMA, HSWA)
What's on Offer
Competitive salary package
Relocation support
Work in a state-of-the-art hydroponic growing environment
Join a rapidly expanding horticultural business
Play a key role influencing crop performance and production outcomes
Long-term opportunity within a progressive and well-backed operation
If you're an irrigation specialist ready to take ownership of a high-tech system and make a real impact on crop performance, we'd love to hear from you.