Horticulturalist - Large Scale Operations

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Competitive salary

Professional development

Modern facilities

Performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Horticulturalist to lead a large-scale horticultural operation in Welkom, Free State. You will manage propagation through harvest for high-value crops, ensuring quality, yield and sustainability.

The ideal candidate holds a degree or diploma in horticulture with 4+ years in commercial horticulture, and strong knowledge of soil, water, nutrients and pest control. Leadership, data analysis and English communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in horticulture, plant science, agriculture or related field.
• 4+ years in commercial horticulture, large-scale crop production.
• Knowledge of soil, water, nutrients, pest control and IPM.
• Experience with irrigation and soil management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, planting, cultivation and harvesting with target yields.
• Develop pest and disease management strategies including IPM.
• Manage irrigation for efficiency and conservation.
• Monitor soil health; implement fertilization programs.
• Supervise staff; ensure safety and best practices.
• Conduct trials on varieties and cultivation technologies.
• Keep records of crop growth, yields, inputs and pests.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and standards.
• Manage propagation and nursery operations for seedlings.
• Contribute to strategic planning of the division.

Skills

Leadership

English communication

Record-keeping

Data analysis

Irrigation management

Soil management

Pest management

Crop knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Horticulture / related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural producer in **Welkom, Free State, ZA**, requires a dedicated and knowledgeable Horticulturalist to manage their large-scale horticultural operations. This role focuses on the cultivation and management of high-value horticultural crops, ensuring optimal growth, quality, and yield. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in plant science, crop management, and an understanding of commercial horticultural practices. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the horticultural division, from propagation to harvest, contributing significantly to the company's success in the **Welkom** area.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, planting, cultivation, and harvesting of horticultural crops, ensuring high quality and yield targets are met.


• Develop and implement effective pest and disease management strategies, including integrated pest management (IPM) techniques.


• Manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal water delivery and conservation.


• Monitor soil health and implement appropriate fertilization and soil amendment programs.


• Supervise and train horticultural staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.


• Conduct research and trials on new varieties, cultivation techniques, and technologies to improve crop performance.


• Maintain detailed records of crop growth, yields, inputs, and pest/disease incidence.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and environmental standards in the **Free State**.


• Manage the propagation and nursery operations for seedlings and young plants.


• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the horticultural division.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.


• At least 4 years of experience in commercial horticulture, with a focus on large-scale crop production.


• Proven expertise in managing horticultural crops, including understanding their specific needs for soil, water, nutrients, and pest control.


• Experience with irrigation systems and soil management techniques.


• Strong knowledge of plant pathology and entomology relevant to horticultural crops.


• Excellent leadership and team management skills.


• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic data analysis.


• Good communication skills, with fluency in English.


• Ability to work effectively in a hands‑on environment within **Welkom**.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary.


• Access to modern horticultural facilities and equipment.


• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.


• Health insurance and retirement benefits.


• A stable position within an established agricultural company.


• Potential for performance-based incentives.