Research Assistant - RUBUS R&D

Mountain Blue is a family owned and run company with a reputation for breeding and growing the best tasting berries in the world. Our varieties are now grown in 30 other countries. There are four units within the business; Farming, Genetics, Marketing and Nursery. This growing business has many exciting opportunities that will lead a successful applicant to a rewarding career.

 About the Role

Based at Lindendale, our Rubus R&D program is looking for a dedicated Assistant to join our team. This is a hands-on field breeding role focused on technical tasks. You will work both outdoors in the field and indoors in our office/lab spaces, performing process-oriented and sometimes repetitive work that must be completed accurately and consistently.

We are seeking someone with a TAFE or recent bachelor’s qualification who is looking for hands-on learning and career progression opportunities, passionate about horticulture, has a keen eye for detail, and thrives in structured, repetitive technical work. If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

·         Perform critical R&D/breeding activities in the field

·         Collecting data in the field and performing data entry.

·         Conducting lab work and fruit testing.

·         Assist in setting up and maintaining field trials

·         Collaborating with Orchard, R&D Rubus, and Nursery teams

·         Supporting the execution of day-to-day orchard activities

·         Follow and uphold MB’s policies and procedures.

·         Support and be involved in developing processes to ensure smooth operation of the R&D program.

·         Performing essential routine tasks that drive our research initiatives.

Skills and Eligibility Criteria

•      A TAFE qualification or recent bachelor’s degree in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field, with an interest in hands-on learning.

•      Proficiency in computer skills, particularly data entry and analysis

•      Previous experience in lab work is highly desirable

•      Detail-oriented with excellent organisational skills

•      Ability to perform repetitive tasks with precision

•      Willingness to work in both the orchard and lab environment

•      Local candidates with a commitment to long-term employment are preferred

Why Choose Mountain Blue

·         Training and mentorship from experienced staff.

·         Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development projects.

·         A collaborative and supportive team environment.

·         Chance to enhance your skills in both orchard and lab settings.

·         We are a people-focused company that affords our team a secure and meaningful environment whilst providing a platform to give back to the local and international communities we operate in.

Remuneration

Hourly rate will be negotiated based on qualification & experience and the job description under the modern horticulture award. Anticipated Level 3-5 classification.