Citrus Orchard Operations Lead | Export Quality

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 520,000 - 780,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Citrus Farm Manager to lead operations in the Port Elizabeth region of the Eastern Cape. You will oversee the full lifecycle of citrus cultivation, from orchard establishment to harvest optimization, ensuring export-grade fruit and adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

The role requires deep citrus physiology knowledge, advanced horticultural techniques, and proven leadership of a diverse farm workforce.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, or related agricultural science.
• 5+ years of direct citrus orchard management experience focused on export quality production.
• Knowledge of citrus varieties, cultivation practices, pests, and diseases.
• Experience with irrigation systems and nutrient management; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily citrus orchard operations for optimal growth and fruit quality.
• Manage irrigation, fertigation, and nutrient programs for citrus crops.
• Develop IPM strategies to minimize crop loss and meet export regulations.
• Supervise and train farm labor, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Monitor weather and protect crops from frost, hail, heat.
• Coordinate harvest operations for export-ready fruit.
• Maintain records of orchard activities, inputs, yields, and quality.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and food safety standards.

Skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Leadership

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, or related agricultural science

Tools

Farm management software

Irrigation control systems

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Citrus Farm Manager to lead operations in the Port Elizabeth region of the Eastern Cape. You will oversee the full lifecycle of citrus cultivation, from orchard establishment to harvest optimization, ensuring export-grade fruit and adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

The role requires deep citrus physiology knowledge, advanced horticultural techniques, and proven leadership of a diverse farm workforce.