121221 Vegetable Grower (Aus) / Market Gardener (NZ)

1212 CROP FARMERS

CROP FARMERS plan, organise, control, coordinate and perform farming operations to grow crops.
Indicative Skill Level:
In Australia and New Zealand:
Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).

Tasks Include:

planning and coordinating the production and marketing of crops, such as grain, cotton, sugar cane, fruit and nuts, vegetables, turf and flowers, from soil preparation to harvest taking into account environmental and market factors
selecting and planting seeds, seedlings and bulbs, and grafting new varieties to root stocks
maintaining crop production by cultivating, de-budding and pruning, and maintaining optimal growing conditions
organising and conducting farming operations, such as collecting, storing, grading and packaging produce, and organising the sale, purchase and despatch of produce
directing and overseeing general farming activities such as fertilising and pest and weed control
maintaining farm buildings, fences, equipment and water supply systems
maintaining and evaluating records of farming activities, monitoring market activity, and planning crop preparation and production to meet contract requirements and market demand
managing business capital including budgeting, taxation, debt and loan management
may select, train and supervise staff and contractors