ASSISTANT PROJECT MANAGER

Pro Tem; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A landscaping management company is looking for an Assistant Project Manager in Johannesburg. This role involves supporting project management, ensuring operational excellence, and engaging with clients and stakeholders. The ideal candidate has a National Diploma in Horticulture, a minimum of 3 years in project coordination, and strong team management skills. The position requires excellent communication and a commitment to high operational standards, with flexible working hours expected.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in project coordination or estate/facilities management.
• Proven experience managing teams and subcontractors on-site.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams.

Responsibilities

• Maintain close communication with clients and subcontractors.
• Assist with resource planning and allocation to meet project timelines.
• Contribute to the preparation and submission of progress reports.

Skills

Project coordination

Team management

Horticulture knowledge

Operational reporting

Excellent communication

Education

National Diploma in Horticulture or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project tracking tools

Job description

Overview

The Assistant Project Manager plays a pivotal role in supporting the Project Manager with the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and strategic management of the estate landscaping areas that forms part of the Waterfall Country Estate portfolio. This position ensures that all activities are executed efficiently, in alignment with company standards, and with a strong focus on client satisfaction and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Client & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Maintain close communication with clients and subcontractors to ensure alignment and responsiveness.
  • Represent the Project Manager in client meetings and site inspections, fostering professional relationships and trust.
• Operational Planning and Oversight
  • Assist with resource planning and allocation to meet project timelines and service standards.
  • Monitor work progress and ensure timely completion of tasks and projects.
  • Manage and coordinate a team of supervisors, ensuring effective deployment of personnel and equipment.
• Reporting and Documentation
  • Contribute to the preparation and submission of weekly and monthly progress reports.
  • Maintain accurate records including inventory, weather data, maintenance procedures, pesticide applications, and compliance documentation.
• Policy & Compliance
  • Uphold and enforce company policies, procedures, and the code of conduct under the guidance of the Project Manager.
  • Ensure all operations comply with environmental and administrative standards.
• Staff Development & Supervision
  • Train, direct, and supervise staff responsible for landscaping maintenance and estate operations.
  • Support the Project Manager in planning and executing maintenance and project work, applying agronomic, horticultural and administrative expertise to meet long-term goals.
• Estate Management & Quality Assurance
  • Oversee scheduling and routing of personnel and equipment to ensure smooth operations.
  • Conduct regular inspections of the estate and surrounding areas to assess performance and recommend improvements.
  • Communicate and obtain approval for any major operational changes prior to implementation.
• Procurement & Inventory Control
  • Assist with the acquisition of equipment and supplies within the approved STM budget.
  • Support inventory control processes to ensure availability and accountability of resources.
• Flexibility & Availability
  • Be prepared to work outside of standard hours when operational demands require it, including evenings and weekends.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• National Diploma in Horticulture or a related field
• Valid driver’s licence
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in project coordination or estate / facilities management
• Proven experience managing teams and subcontractors on-site
• Familiarity with maintenance planning, resource allocation, and operational reporting
• Exposure to landscaping, golf course maintenance, or large estate operations (preferred)
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including report writing
• Ability to interpret and enforce company policies and procedures
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and project tracking tools
• Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under pressure
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams
• Empathetic yet assertive approach to staff supervision and client interaction
• Commitment to maintaining high operational standards and continuous improvement
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends or after-hours when required