Farm Operations Superintendent

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package aligned with industry

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual leave

Incentives

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Farm Operations Superintendent for a large-scale farming operation in the Free State. You will oversee land preparation, planting, crop maintenance and harvesting, driving operational excellence and safety across the farm.

You will manage a large workforce, supervise equipment and infrastructure, coordinate agronomy programs with experts, and ensure compliance with agricultural regulations while delivering production targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field; significant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Minimum of 8 years in agricultural operations with at least 4 years in a supervisory/management role.
• Strong knowledge of crop production, soil science, pest management, and irrigation systems relevant to large-scale farming.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily farming operations including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Lead a diverse team of workers, ensuring safety, productivity, and morale.
• Develop and implement operational plans and schedules to meet production targets.
• Oversee maintenance and safe operation of farm machinery and infrastructure.
• Monitor crop health and environmental factors; adjust practices as needed.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance on the farm.
• Procure farming inputs and manage records of production data and labor.

Skills

Agronomy

Leadership

Pest management

Irrigation

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Agronomy

Tools

Farm machinery

Agricultural equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale commercial farming operation situated in the fertile plains of Welkom, Free State , is seeking a highly competent and experienced Farm Operations Superintendent. This pivotal role involves overseeing the efficient and productive management of all farm activities, from land preparation and planting to crop maintenance and harvesting. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in agronomy, excellent leadership skills, and a proven ability to manage large teams and complex operations. You will be responsible for ensuring optimal resource utilization, implementing best practices in crop cultivation, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety across the farm. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to driving operational excellence in a demanding agricultural environment. The role is integral to the success of the farming business in the heart of the Free State 's agricultural region.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate all daily farming operations, including planting, cultivation, pest and disease control, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Manage and lead a diverse team of farm workers, including seasonal and permanent staff, ensuring productivity, safety, and morale.
• Develop and implement detailed operational plans and schedules to meet production targets.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors, making timely decisions to address any issues.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures on the farm.
• Manage the procurement of farming inputs, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate operational records, including production data, labor reports, and equipment logs.
• Collaborate with agronomists and other technical experts to optimize farming practices and introduce new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and company policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field. Significant relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in progressively responsible roles within agricultural operations, with at least 4 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Strong knowledge of crop production techniques, soil science, pest management, and irrigation systems relevant to the Free State .
• Proven experience in managing large workforces and ensuring operational efficiency.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining a variety of farm machinery and equipment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and planning abilities, with a focus on results.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and solve operational challenges effectively.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the agricultural sector.
• A valid driver's license is essential, and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons is required.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, benchmarked against industry standards and commensurate with experience.
• The benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund contribution, and generous annual leave.
• Performance-based incentives are available for exceeding production targets and demonstrating exceptional operational management.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are provided to ensure career growth within the organization.
• This role offers the satisfaction of managing a significant agricultural enterprise in a key farming region of South Africa , contributing directly to the nation's food security.