Polytunnel Manager
| Posting date: | 06 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 08 March 2026 |
| Location: | AB30 1JX |
| Remote working: | On-site only |
| Company: | Castleton Fruit Ltd |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: |
Summary
Castleton Fruit Ltd is a family-run business producing premium soft fruit for leading UK retailers. We take pride in growing high-quality berries through responsible and efficient farming practices.
We’re looking for a Polytunnel Manager to oversee all day-to-day operations within our tunnel production system — ensuring consistent quality, productivity, and care across our soft fruit crops. This is a key, hands-on leadership role for someone with strong horticultural knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to lead a diverse seasonal team. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
Key Responsibilities
Tunnel Operations
•
Oversee the daily running of all polytunnels across the site.
•
Maintain tunnel structures and general conditions to ensure a clean, safe, and productive environment.
•
Monitor temperature, ventilation, and humidity to support healthy plant growth.
•
Report any damage or issues promptly to the Management and coordinate repairs.
•
Proactively track materials to ensure all requirements are identified ahead of time.
•
Be prepared to manage storm-related damage and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
Team Leadership
•
Lead and manage a team of seasonal workers operating within the tunnels.
•
Allocate daily and weekly tasks efficiently to maintain workflow and output.
•
Train new staff on correct tunnel procedures, hygiene standards, and safe working practices.
•
Monitor performance and productivity, ensuring high standards are maintained.
•
Support a positive working culture where teamwork, respect, and safety come first.
Standards & Compliance
•
Ensure tunnels are kept tidy, well-organised, and compliant with food safety and retailer audit standards.
•
Work closely with Quality and Farm Management teams to uphold Castleton’s reputation for excellence.
•
Follow all site health & safety procedures and encourage safe practices among staff.
•
Report and address any equipment, safety, or operational concerns promptly.
Operational Efficiency
•
Manage tunnel systems to achieve maximum crop performance with minimal waste.
•
Support continuous improvements in energy efficiency, sustainability, and resource use.
•
Contribute ideas for process innovation and efficiency in tunnel management.
Skills & Experience
•
Previous experience in a supervisory or team leader role within horticulture or agriculture.
•
Strong practical knowledge of tunnel environments and irrigation systems.
•
Excellent people management and communication skills.
•
Organised, reliable, and proactive with a hands-on approach.
•
Ability to work under pressure during busy periods.
•
Full UK driving licence required.
Working Conditions
•
This is a physically active, outdoor role within tunnel environments.
•
Weekend and seasonal overtime will be required during peak periods.
•
Accommodation may be available on-site for the right candidate.
We’re looking for a Polytunnel Manager to oversee all day-to-day operations within our tunnel production system — ensuring consistent quality, productivity, and care across our soft fruit crops. This is a key, hands-on leadership role for someone with strong horticultural knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to lead a diverse seasonal team. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
Key Responsibilities
Tunnel Operations
•
Oversee the daily running of all polytunnels across the site.
•
Maintain tunnel structures and general conditions to ensure a clean, safe, and productive environment.
•
Monitor temperature, ventilation, and humidity to support healthy plant growth.
•
Report any damage or issues promptly to the Management and coordinate repairs.
•
Proactively track materials to ensure all requirements are identified ahead of time.
•
Be prepared to manage storm-related damage and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
Team Leadership
•
Lead and manage a team of seasonal workers operating within the tunnels.
•
Allocate daily and weekly tasks efficiently to maintain workflow and output.
•
Train new staff on correct tunnel procedures, hygiene standards, and safe working practices.
•
Monitor performance and productivity, ensuring high standards are maintained.
•
Support a positive working culture where teamwork, respect, and safety come first.
Standards & Compliance
•
Ensure tunnels are kept tidy, well-organised, and compliant with food safety and retailer audit standards.
•
Work closely with Quality and Farm Management teams to uphold Castleton’s reputation for excellence.
•
Follow all site health & safety procedures and encourage safe practices among staff.
•
Report and address any equipment, safety, or operational concerns promptly.
Operational Efficiency
•
Manage tunnel systems to achieve maximum crop performance with minimal waste.
•
Support continuous improvements in energy efficiency, sustainability, and resource use.
•
Contribute ideas for process innovation and efficiency in tunnel management.
Skills & Experience
•
Previous experience in a supervisory or team leader role within horticulture or agriculture.
•
Strong practical knowledge of tunnel environments and irrigation systems.
•
Excellent people management and communication skills.
•
Organised, reliable, and proactive with a hands-on approach.
•
Ability to work under pressure during busy periods.
•
Full UK driving licence required.
Working Conditions
•
This is a physically active, outdoor role within tunnel environments.
•
Weekend and seasonal overtime will be required during peak periods.
•
Accommodation may be available on-site for the right candidate.