Citrus Farm Manager - Large Scale Operations

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Housing assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Citrus Farm Manager to oversee a substantial citrus operation in the Upington region. The role requires leadership over orchard management, irrigation, pest control, labor, and financial oversight to deliver high-quality fruit for domestic and export markets.

You will manage irrigation in arid conditions, optimize productivity, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Experience in farm management with a focus on citrus production.
• Strong irrigation and water-management knowledge for arid regions.
• Proven leadership and organizational skills.
• Budgeting and financial reporting experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage all citrus orchard operations including planting, pruning, canopy management, and thinning.
• Develop irrigation strategies to optimize water use for citrus trees in arid conditions.
• Oversee pest and disease management programs for citrus orchards.
• Lead recruitment, training, scheduling, and supervision of farm workers.
• Ensure efficient harvesting operations and quality standards.
• Monitor soil health, nutrients, and orchard health with interventions as needed.
• Procure farm inputs and maintain records of production and expenses.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and logistics to ensure timely delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Irrigation management

Pest control

Budget management

Communication

Labor management

Education

Horticulture degree

Tools

Farm management software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural producer in the Northern Cape , is seeking a skilled and experienced Citrus Farm Manager to oversee a substantial citrus operation in the Upington region. This role is paramount to ensuring the successful cultivation, management, and harvesting of high-quality citrus fruits for both domestic and international markets. The Citrus Farm Manager will be responsible for all facets of farm operations, including orchard management, irrigation, pest and disease control, labor management, and financial oversight. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in citrus production, a deep understanding of the unique environmental conditions of the Northern Cape , and proven leadership capabilities. You will be instrumental in driving productivity, efficiency, and sustainability within this vital agricultural sector of South Africa . This is an excellent opportunity to manage significant citrus groves in a region renowned for its fruit production.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of citrus orchard operations, including planting, pruning, canopy management, and fruit thinning.
• Develop and implement comprehensive irrigation strategies, optimizing water use for citrus trees in arid conditions.
• Oversee integrated pest and disease management programs tailored for citrus orchards.
• Manage labor effectively, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and supervision of farm workers.
• Ensure efficient harvesting operations, meeting quality standards and market demands.
• Monitor orchard health, soil conditions, and nutrient levels, implementing appropriate interventions.
• Manage the procurement of farm inputs, including fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment.
• Maintain accurate farm records, including production yields, expenses, and operational logs.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing and logistics teams to ensure timely delivery of produce.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in farm management, with a strong focus on citrus production.
• In-depth knowledge of citrus varieties, cultivation techniques, and specific challenges in arid regions.
• Proven experience in irrigation management, particularly in water-scarce environments.
• Strong understanding of integrated pest and disease management for citrus.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with budget management and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to reside in proximity to Upington .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and housing assistance. Opportunities for professional development and further training in citrus management are provided. You will be part of a supportive team dedicated to excellence in agricultural production. Join our client's esteemed operation in the picturesque Northern Cape and contribute to the success of the citrus industry in South Africa.