Demo Block Technician

Fall Creek is creating a world with better blueberries through its friendly, collaborative team spread across the globe. To help us accomplish this, we are seeking a qualified Demo Block Technician. This position will be located in Paarl, South Africa.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Demo Block Technician perform a variety of tasks at the Demo Site including supervising work. The Demo Block Technician act as the coordinator for work and information between management and employees.

ORGANIZATIONAL FIT:

The Demo Block Technician reports directly to the Production Manager but also has an indirect reporting link to the Commercial and R&D Team. The Demo Block Technician will be expected to interact with potential clients and service providers based on operational requirements.

JOB SETTING:

Nursery setting. Evening and weekend work may be required. Exposed to weather, pollen, dust, insects (including bees), soil/mud, uneven gravel surfaces. May work with pesticides. May also work near rivers and ponds. May have access to restricted/locked areas.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

(Other duties may be assigned)

• Supervises, organizes and monitors the work of demo block assistant and seasonal workers.
• Makes impartial decisions in regards to scheduling work to employees and teams.
• Consistently applies work rules to all employees. Notifies management of problems or potential issues in a timely manner.
• Trains new employees on company processes, locations and work standards.
• Accurately reports and records of horticultural activity. Assists with time-motion studies as needed. Assists with organizing workflow and work efficiency.
• Assists with monitoring plant quality by watching for unusual plant appearance, plant diseases or signs of stress, pests, or other potential problems with the crop. Notifies management of issues in a timely manner.
• Performs all work activities and promotes work crews to perform work in a safe and efficient manner. Brings potential hazards to the immediate attention of management or the safety committee. Follows all pesticide signage. Immediately reports accidents, injuries and near-misses to management. Enforces the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when completing tasks (ear plugs/muffs, gloves, boots, safety glasses, etc.).
• Follows the policies according to Fall Creek’s Employee Handbook. Ensures policies are followed by the employees on the team. Acts as a role model for good behavior. Leads by example.
• Makes sure equipment is in proper operating condition and immediately notifies the maintenance department if repairs are needed.
• Follows written directions, such as pull slips, job lists, etc.
• Assist Production Manager on Farm Audits.
• Assist employees in performing work by answering questions and demonstrating techniques.
• Trains employees on how to operate equipment and machinery safely.
• Monitors and shares supplies and resources (i.e., pallets, boxes, tape, gloves, fertilizer, etc.) and notifies managers of potential shortages in a timely manner.
• Assists with keeping work areas and the overall appearance of the demo block clean and organized.
• Ensures keys and lock codes are protected and used only for business purposes.
• Demonstrates a willingness to learn new tasks and take on individual responsibilities.
• Supervises labor contractors and other temporary employees.
• Demonstrates respectful communication and interactions with crews, other team leaders, and managers.
• Motivates employees to do their best work by being positive and offering encouragement.
• Encourages employees to contribute ideas and suggestions in order to improve the operation of the nursery.
• Assists with tracking attendance. Ensures break periods start and end on time.
• Assists with performance reviews as needed.
• May participate on the safety committee.
• May attend other meetings as needed (shipping, labor, safety etc.).
• Any ad hoc tasks as assigned by Production Manager from time to time.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND TRAINING:

• Extensive knowledge of the company operation, processes and standards.
• Commitment to safety and maintaining a positive work environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize work.
• Ability to get along and work well with a diverse group of people.
• Knowledge and training in the equipment and machinery used.
• Assures the highest level of confidentiality on sensitive matters concerning the nursery

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Relevant Degree/ Diploma in Horticulture/ Agricultural Management

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