Trainee Planter Program - Labor Administration & Industrial Relations

Role Overview

This role is based on a plantation estate where day-to-day operations require close coordination between field staff and administrative teams. You will be responsible for supervising harvesting schedules, monitoring crop quality, and ensuring that fieldwork aligns with production targets. The position matters because efficient on-ground management directly affects yield consistency, cost control, and the wellbeing of the workforce – all critical to a plantation’s profitability and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily field activities including plucking, pruning, fertiliser application, and weed control to meet established yield and quality benchmarks.
• Monitor and record crop growth, weather conditions, and pest or disease outbreaks, then recommend timely interventions.
• Coordinate with estate supervisors and labour contractors to ensure adequate staffing and proper allocation of workers across different sections.
• Prepare accurate daily, weekly, and monthly reports on production volumes, labour attendance, and input usage for management review.
• Conduct regular field inspections to identify operational bottlenecks, safety hazards, or equipment maintenance needs and address them proactively.
• Enforce compliance with company policies, environmental standards, and labour regulations during all field operations.
• Lead and motivate field teams, providing on-the-job training and clear instructions to improve productivity and reduce wastage.
• Assist in implementing new agronomic practices or cost-saving initiatives recommended by senior management or agronomists.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Degree holder in Agriculture, Plantation Management, or a related field preferred; candidates who have passed A/Ls and hold a NIPM Plantations Management qualification will have an added advantage.
• Demonstrated leadership potential – ability to guide teams, resolve conflicts, and take ownership of field-level results.
• Excellent command of English for written reports and verbal communication with management and external stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills, high attention to detail, and proven ability to coordinate multiple tasks across different teams.
• Ability to communicate in Sinhala and Tamil is an advantage to effectively interact with the local workforce.
• Willingness to work in a remote plantation environment and adapt to physically demanding conditions.
• Basic knowledge of estate accounting, stock keeping, or computer literacy (e.g., MS Excel) is a plus.

What We Offer / Why Join

Based on the information provided, no specific benefits or perks have been listed for this role. Candidates are encouraged to inquire about compensation, accommodation, and growth opportunities during the interview process.