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 .