Farm Manager - Large Scale Operations

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 54,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

On-site accommodation

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Paid annual leave

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks an experienced Farm Manager to oversee large-scale agricultural operations, including planning, planting, crop care, irrigation, harvesting and labor management. You will implement best practices in sustainable agriculture and ensure health, safety and environmental compliance on-site.

The ideal candidate holds a degree in Agriculture or Farm Management and at least five years of leadership in farming.

Qualifications

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in farm management, preferably in large-scale operations.
• Strong knowledge of crop production cycles, soil science, and IPM.
• Experience with irrigation systems and water management.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.
• Familiarity with the Northern Cape crops is advantageous.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day farming operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Supervise and direct farm labor, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and safely.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
• Monitor crop health, identify and manage pests, diseases, and weeds.
• Implement and promote best practices in soil management and nutrient application.
• Maintain farm equipment and machinery in good working order.
• Manage farm inventory, including seeds, fertilizers, and other supplies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of farm activities, production, expenses, and yields.
• Contribute to the development of annual operating budgets and financial forecasts.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural producer, is seeking a highly competent and experienced Farm Manager to oversee expansive operations in the fertile region of Upington, Northern Cape, ZA. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient and profitable cultivation of crops, requiring strong leadership, extensive agronomic knowledge, and hands‑on operational management skills. The successful candidate will be responsible for all facets of farm operations, including planning, planting, crop care, pest and disease management, irrigation, harvesting, and labor management. You will be instrumental in implementing best practices in sustainable agriculture to maximize yield and quality while minimizing environmental impact. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of local soil types, climate conditions, and crop specificities relevant to the Northern Cape. This is an on‑site position demanding a commitment to the farm and its people, ensuring the smooth and successful running of large‑scale agricultural activities. You will be empowered to make key operational decisions and drive productivity in a vital agricultural hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all day-to-day farming operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, and harvesting.


• Supervise and direct farm labor, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and safely.


• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of irrigation systems.


• Monitor crop health, identify and manage pests, diseases, and weeds.


• Implement and promote best practices in soil management and nutrient application.


• Maintain farm equipment and machinery in good working order.


• Manage farm inventory, including seeds, fertilizers, and other supplies.


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


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


• Contribute to the development of annual operating budgets and financial forecasts.

Requirements

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in farm management, preferably in large-scale agricultural operations.


• Strong knowledge of crop production cycles, soil science, and integrated pest management (IPM).


• Experience with irrigation systems and water management techniques.


• Proven leadership and team management skills.


• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.


• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.


• Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.


• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and specific crops of the Northern Cape is highly advantageous.


• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.


• Housing allowance or on-site accommodation provided.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.


• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and training.


• Paid annual leave and public holidays.


• Work in a key agricultural region known for its productivity.


• Company vehicle for farm-related travel.