Research Agronomist
About Applied Horticultural Research (AHR)
Applied Horticultural Research (AHR) is a team of skilled research and communication professionals. Our aim is to support innovation through the horticultural supply chain, from farm to consumer.
We work closely with growers and supply chain stakeholders on projects that can improve profitability of fresh produce businesses. AHR undertakes research, training, communication, and extension work on horticultural crop issues such as soil health, pest and disease management, developing agronomic systems, and reducing postharvest quality losses.
About the role
This is a field-based agronomy role focused on the structured evaluation of
advanced weed management technologies on commercial vegetable farms.
The Agronomist will work directly with growers, technical teams, and project partners
to implement and monitor on-farm trials involving robotic, laser, mechanical and
precision systems.
The position requires confidence working alongside complex machinery in live
paddock environments and the discipline to implement trial protocols accurately and
consistently.
The focus is on credible evaluation, high-quality data capture, and practical
outcomes growers can trust.
This role will also provide support to additional Applied Horticultural Research
projects.
Location: SE Qld with frequent work in Lockyer and Fassifern Valley
Employment type: Full-time or part-time (negotiable)
Contract term: Fixed-term aligned to project funding (with extension potential)
About the project
Next Generation Weed Management is a high profile, five-year national initiative accelerating the
evaluation and adoption of advanced weed control technologies in Australian
horticulture.
Through structured field trials across multiple regions, the project generates
independent, commercially relevant evidence to support long-term adoption
of more sustainable methods of weed control.
For more information visit the AHR website: https://ahr.com.au/ai-enabled-weed-management
Key Responsibilities
* Trial Implementation & Technical Field Support
* Support the design, establishment, and monitoring of trials using advanced
weed management technologies with approved testing protocols.
* Work alongside project partners and technical staff during equipment
setup, calibration and field operation.
* Support the structured evaluation of robotic, laser, mechanical and
precision weed control systems.
* Ensure trials are executed consistently across sites to maintain data
integrity and comparability.
* Observe and document system performance under varying crop, soil and
operational conditions.
* Grower Engagement & Field Co-ordination
* Act as the primary agronomic contact for participating growers.
* Ensure trial activities integrate smoothly into commercial farm
operations.
* Support field days, demonstrations and co-design activities.
* Maintain professional relationships that support multi-season continuity.
3. Data Collection & Reporting
* Collect accurate, traceable field data aligned with project monitoring
and evaluation requirements.
* Record operational observations, system performance notes and
agronomic outcomes.
* Contribute to structured reporting, trial summaries and technical
documentation.
* Maintain documentation standards suitable for funded R&D audit
requirements.
* Cross-Project Support (AHR Portfolio).
Provide agronomic and field trial support across other AHR projects involving:
* Machinery evaluation
* Precision agriculture systems
* Practice change and technology adoption
* Grower engagement
* Share learnings and insights across projects to strengthen AHR’s
national knowledge base
* Collaboration & Project Integration
Work closely with:
* AHR project managers and researchers
* Project partners, field and extension staff
* Technology providers as required
* Contribute to a coordinated national approach alongside other
workstreams (e.g. Victoria).
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Degree in horticulture or agricultural science, with experience in Australian
horticultural production systems.
* Proven experience implementing structured field trials in commercial farm
environments.
* Confidence working around agricultural machinery and precision systems in live
paddock settings.
* Strong attention to detail, with disciplined adherence to trial protocols and high
standards of data capture and documentation.
* Willingness to travel regularly within Queensland.
Highly Desirable
* Experience with advanced weed management technologies including AI,
* Robotics, or precision agriculture technologies.
* Familiarity with research trials conducted under funded R&D programs.
* Experience contributing to reports, case studies, or extension materials.
* Understanding of grower adoption dynamics and practice change.
Personal Attributes
* Technically confident and comfortable in field-based machinery environments.
* Calm and solutions-focused when working in dynamic farm conditions.
* Collaborative and accountable within multi-disciplinary teams.
Why work for us?
We are a small and welcoming team with a supportive and collaborative work environment. We offer:
· Flexible working arrangements
· Professional growth and personal development
· Exposure to a wide array of projects and technical areas
· Salary sacrifice options
· A strong sense of purpose helping the horticulture industry become more sustainable, productive and better equipped for the future
Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or hold full working rights in Australia at the time of application.
Please forward your resume and cover letter to *****@ahr.com.au
Closing date: 23 May 2026