Farm Manager - Large-Scale Crop Production

Placements24; O Mente; On-site; EUR 32,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Company vehicle & fuel allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a large-scale crop operation in the Eastern Cape. The role oversees planning, budgeting, and supervision of all farming activities to maximize yield and ensure sustainability.

The successful candidate will lead a team, manage machinery and irrigation systems, and collaborate with agronomists to optimize performance while adhering to safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in farm operations management, with large-scale crop production experience.
• Strong knowledge of agronomic principles including soil science and pest management.
• Experience managing machinery, irrigation systems, and budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Plan and direct all crop production activities including land prep, planting, cultivation, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Supervise farm workers with clear direction, training, and performance feedback.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and repair of farm machinery and equipment.
• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs.
• Develop and manage annual operating budgets and control costs.
• Implement best practices for soil health, water conservation, and environmental stewardship.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and agricultural regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of operations, expenses, yields, and production data.
• Collaborate with agronomists and technical advisors to optimize crop performance.
• Monitor market trends for crop selection and sales planning.
• Implement quality control measures across production processes.
• Foster a safe and productive working environment for staff.

Skills

Leadership

Agronomy

Budgeting

Farm management software

Irrigation systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture

Tools

Farm machinery

Agricultural software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural producer in the Eastern Cape, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Farm Manager to oversee large-scale crop production operations. This hands-on role, based in the Queenstown area, is responsible for the efficient and profitable management of extensive farmlands, focusing on maximizing yield and quality while adhering to best management practices. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a comprehensive understanding of crop science, and proven experience in managing farm resources, including labor, machinery, and finances. You will be directly involved in planning, execution, and supervision of all farming activities, ensuring operational excellence and sustainability. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to a vital sector of the South African economy.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and direct all crop production activities, including land preparation, planting, cultivation, pest and disease control, irrigation, and harvesting.


• Manage and supervise a team of farm workers, providing clear direction, training, and performance feedback.


• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all farm machinery and equipment.


• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs.


• Develop and manage annual operating budgets, controlling costs and ensuring financial targets are met.


• Implement and monitor best practices for soil health, water conservation, and environmental protection.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and agricultural regulations.


• Maintain accurate records of farm operations, production data, expenses, and yields.


• Collaborate with agronomists and other technical advisors to optimize crop performance.


• Monitor market trends and make informed decisions regarding crop selection and sales strategies.


• Implement quality control measures throughout the production process.


• Foster a safe and productive working environment for all staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.


• Minimum of 7 years of experience in farm operations management, with a proven track record in large-scale crop production.


• Strong knowledge of agronomic principles, including crop physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management relevant to the Eastern Cape region.


• Demonstrated experience in managing farm machinery, equipment, and irrigation systems.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.


• Proficient in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.


• Experience with farm management software and standard office applications.


• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and adapt to changing conditions.


• Valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.


• Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the significant responsibilities of this role, along with performance-based bonuses.


• The comprehensive benefits include medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance.


• Opportunities for professional development through relevant courses and industry events are provided.


• A company vehicle and fuel allowance are included for business-related travel in the Queenstown area and surrounding regions.


• This is an on-site position offering a stable and dynamic work environment within a reputable agricultural enterprise.