Commercial Horticulturalist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Access to modern facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Commercial Horticulturalist to oversee crop production near Richards Bay. The role blends on-site management with strategy and reporting, leading a team of horticultural technicians to ensure quality and yield.

You will guide nutrition, irrigation, pest control, and crop trials, while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards in a hybrid work setup.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of commercial horticulture experience.
• Knowledge of plant physiology, soil science and IPM.
• Ability to manage and motivate a team.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Willingness to adapt to changing conditions and operational needs.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of horticultural crop production from propagation to harvest.
• Develop and implement crop management plans including nutrition, irrigation and pest/disease control.
• Supervise and train horticultural staff, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
• Monitor plant health and environmental conditions; adjust practices to optimise growth.
• Oversee maintenance of equipment and facilities; manage inventory of planting materials and supplies.
• Conduct trials on new crop varieties and growing techniques; analyze production data for improvements.

Education

Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Agronomy or Plant Science

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent player in the commercial horticultural sector, is seeking a skilled Commercial Horticulturalist for their operations near **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role involves a hybrid work arrangement, combining critical on-site management of horticultural operations with remote strategic planning and reporting. You will be responsible for overseeing the cultivation of high-value crops, ensuring optimal growth, quality, and yield. This position requires a deep understanding of horticultural science, plant physiology, and sustainable growing practices. You will lead a team of horticultural technicians and workers, fostering a culture of excellence and efficiency. Your work will directly contribute to the success and profitability of our client's horticultural business, ensuring the consistent supply of premium produce to market. The hybrid model supports both hands-on involvement and strategic oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of horticultural crop production, from propagation to harvest.
• Develop and implement crop management plans, including nutrition, irrigation, and pest/disease control strategies.
• Supervise and train horticultural staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.
• Monitor plant health and environmental conditions, making adjustments as needed to optimize growth.
• Oversee the maintenance of horticultural equipment and facilities.
• Manage inventory of planting materials, fertilizers, and other essential supplies.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties and growing techniques.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze production data and implement improvements for efficiency and yield.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in commercial horticulture.
• In-depth knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with hydroponic or controlled environment agriculture systems is a plus.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate a team.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with relevant horticultural technologies and equipment.
• Ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions and operational needs.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
• The hybrid work arrangement offers a balance between field operations and remote strategic work.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are available.
• You will be part of a dedicated team focused on producing high-quality horticultural products.
• Access to modern horticultural facilities and resources will be provided.