Assistant Nursery Manager

Sutherland Seedlings; East London; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading South African nursery in East London seeks an Assistant Nursery Manager to oversee nursery propagation activities and manage staff. Ideal candidates will have a relevant horticulture qualification and experience in avocado or orchard management. Responsibilities include managing irrigation, supporting logistics, and ensuring high-quality plant production. Strong planning and teamwork skills are essential. Accommodation is not provided, and own transport is necessary.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on skills and experience

Qualifications

• Hands-on approach and strong work ethic.
• Professional proficiency in English; isiXhosa is advantageous.
• Experience with avocado or orchard is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing nursery propagation activities.
• Supervise nursery staff.
• Manage irrigation and nutrient programs.
• Coordinate dispatch operations.
• Capture production data.
• Provide after-sales technical support.
• Assist with farm maintenance operations.

Skills

Planning

Organisational skills

Teamwork

Time-management

Attention to detail

Education

Relevant horticulture or agriculture qualification

Job description

Sutherland Seedlings is a leading South African nursery specialising in the production of high-quality forestry, fruit and vegetable seedlings. An exciting opportunity has arisen for a disciplined, motivated, and technically competent Assistant Nursery Manager to join our Eastern Cape operation, propagating clonal Avocado trees.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the management of nursery propagation activities
• Support the supervision and management of nursery staff
• Manage irrigation and nutrient programs for greenhouse and shade-house plants
• Coordinate dispatch operations and logistics
• Capture production data and ensure full plant traceability
• Provide after-sales technical support to clients
• Assist with farm maintenance operations, construction, and expansion projects

Candidate Requirements

• Honest, reliable, and hardworking, with a hands-on approach
• Strong planning, organisational, and time-management skills
• Positive attitude, conscientious work ethic, and ability to work effectively in a team
• Relevant horticulture or agriculture qualification (diploma or degree)
• Avocado or orchard experience will be advantageous
• Professional proficiency in English; isiXhosa will be an advantage
• Strong commitment to producing consistently high-quality plants

Employment Conditions

• Working hours are from 06h30 to 16h30 during the week and include weekend duties
• Accommodation is not provided; own transport is required
• A competitive salary will be offered, in line with the successful candidates skills and experience.