At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily ripening operations and manage stock flow for top-quality avocados.
- Company: Join The Avocado Company, a leader in fresh produce with a global reach.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on avocado quality and sustainability in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in fresh produce and strong knowledge of fruit behaviour required.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
We are looking for the perfect candidate to support our established and ambitious UK business, The Avocado Company, based at our newly invested Ripening Centre of Excellence in Paddock Wood .
With grower partners in key locations around the world, we ensure a seamless 52-week supply of the best quality avocados to customers in retail, wholesale and foodservice both in the UK and further afield.
We have an opportunity for you to join our team in Paddock Wood as a Senior Ripener, you would be responsible for supporting daily ripening operations, using technical knowledge, planning judgement and accurate data to deliver fruit to customer quality, quantity and service requirements.
The role manages stock flow, makes informed decisions, supports Ripeners and maintains safe, compliant and efficient operations.
Key Responsibilities
Team Support & Communication
- Prioritise daily ripening activity, stock checks, room movements and operational tasks.
- Update Production, Technical, Commercial and Procurement on performance, availability, quality risks and actions.
- Guide Ripeners, act as a senior contact and elevate issues to the Head of Product & Ripening.
- Ripening, Quality & Stock Control
- Plan and manage rooms to meet customer specifications, service requirements and stock targets.
- Assess condition and maturity using pressure, dry matter, grading, sugar-level and visual checks; adjust cycles for origin, variety, season, stock age and customer need.
- Balance availability, shelf life, yield and waste while controlling stock rotation, room use and product flow.
- Support QA with in-loading checks, supplier compliance, quality risks and waste reporting.
- Equipment, Process & Compliance
- Monitor and calibrate equipment; elevate room or plant issues and recommend action.
- Use data and trials to improve yield, room utilisation, consistency and loss reduction.
- Keep audit-ready ripening, quality and traceability records in line with BRC, hygiene, 5S and company procedures.
- Our Perfect Candidate
- You will have practical experience in fresh produce, ripening or food production and strong knowledge of fruit behaviour across origins, varieties, seasons and stock profiles.
You can assess condition accurately, make sound decisions and adapt plans to deliver specification, maximise shelf life and control waste.
- Organised and confident with data, you manage rooms and plan stock through the ripening cycle.
You communicate clearly, mentor Ripeners, lead by example, improve performance and uphold food safety, hygiene, traceability and health and safety standards.
- The Hours You Would Work
- 5 on 2 off. Shift does include some weekend working. 5.30/6am start - 2/2.30pm finish.
- What We Can Offer You
- A competitive salary.
- 6.6 weeks annual leave incl. bank hols.
- Pension scheme.
- Optional company share scheme.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Free onsite parking.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Medicash.
- Death in service benefit.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Ripener employer: Fresca Group
Join our dynamic Warehouse Team as a Level 2 Operative, where you'll not only play a crucial role in the movement of products and materials but also enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and growth. With benefits like 6.6 weeks of holiday, a pension scheme, and an Employee Assistance programme, we ensure our team members feel valued and empowered. Located in a vibrant area with free onsite parking, this position offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a high-volume environment while developing your skills and supporting your colleagues.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Ripener
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Fresca Group often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Ripener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Fresca Group does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fresca Group
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Fresca Group will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Fresca Group.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Fresca Group.
