Farm Operations Manager - Grains & Cereals

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance or on-site housing

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee large-scale grain and cereal farming activities in the Benoni region. The role combines strategic planning with hands-on execution of planting, harvesting, and post-harvest processes to maximize yield and profitability.

You will lead a team of farm workers, manage inputs and equipment, monitor crops and soil, and ensure adherence to safety standards and sustainable farming practices.

Qualifications

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Management, or related field.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in farm operations, focused on grains/cereals.
• Experience in crop management, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Experience operating and maintaining large-scale agricultural machinery.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans for grains and cereals.
• Oversee field operations including planting, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Manage procurement and utilization of farm inputs, equipment, and machinery.
• Lead and supervise farm laborers and equipment operators with safety focus.
• Monitor crop progress, soil conditions, and weather, adjusting plans as needed.
• Maintain records of production, inventory, costs, and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Crop management

Pest management

Machinery operation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture

Tools

Large-scale machinery

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Farm Operations Manager specializing in grains and cereals to oversee their extensive farming operations in the Benoni region. This hands-on role requires strategic planning and efficient execution of all cultivation, planting, harvesting, and post-harvest activities for large-scale grain production. You will be responsible for managing resources, leading a team of farm workers, and ensuring optimal yield and quality while adhering to sustainable farming practices and safety standards. This is a crucial position for someone passionate about large-scale agriculture and committed to maximizing operational efficiency and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans for grains and cereals, including seed selection, fertilization, and pest/disease management.
• Oversee all field operations, ensuring timely and efficient execution of planting, cultivation, and harvesting activities.
• Manage the procurement and utilization of farm inputs, equipment, and machinery.
• Lead, train, and supervise a team of farm laborers and equipment operators, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
• Monitor crop progress, soil conditions, and weather patterns, making adjustments to operational plans as needed.
• Maintain accurate records of production, inventory, operational costs, and compliance documentation.

Requirements

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in farm operations, with a strong focus on grain and cereal production.
• Proven expertise in crop management, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Experience operating and maintaining large-scale agricultural machinery.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and budget management skills.
• Knowledge of relevant South African agricultural regulations and best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Housing allowance or on-site accommodation provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in agricultural technologies.
• A challenging and rewarding role within a leading agricultural enterprise in Benoni .