Farm Manager

Zealhr; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural producer in Gauteng is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee vegetable production and packhouse operations. You'll manage HR and operational processes, ensuring coordination between teams to meet retailer demands. The ideal candidate has 5-7 years of farm management experience and a solid understanding of crop production principles. This role offers a chance to implement sustainable farming practices and optimize operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• 5 - 7 years of experience in a farm management position.
• Proven supervisory experience in horticulture or vegetable production.
• Understanding of pest and disease control methods.

Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee the production cycle from planting to harvesting.
• Manage crop-specific practices, ensuring optimal yield.
• Supervise and train farm workers in best practices.

Skills

Leadership skills

Crop husbandry knowledge

HR management

Mechanical knowledge

Proficiency in Excel

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Agricultural qualification

Job description

Job Description

FARM MANAGER Our client, a vegetable producer and supplier to major retailers, is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee both field production and packhouse operations of a farm located outside of Cullinan, Pretoria East.

The role will focus on managing HR, operational processes, and production cycles across the farm, ensuring smooth coordination between the production team and the packhouse team to meet retailer requirements.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee the full production cycle of vegetable crops, from soil preparation to harvesting and post-harvest handling.
• Develop and implement effective planting schedules based on seasonal cycles, market demand, and crop rotation principles.
• Manage crop-specific cultivation practices, including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and weed management.
• Supervise and train farm workers, ensuring best practices are followed in planting, maintenance, and harvesting operations.
• Monitor crop performance, soil health, and environmental conditions to ensure optimal yield and quality.
• Operate and maintain farm machinery and irrigation systems, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Maintain compliance with agricultural regulations, food safety, and hygiene standards.
• Oversee record-keeping for inputs, outputs, labour, costs, and crop performance for accurate reporting and budgeting.
• Coordinate logistics for produce delivery and liaise with buyers, markets, and supply chain stakeholders.
• Implement sustainable farming practices to improve long-term soil productivity and reduce environmental impact.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety protocols for staff and operations.

Requirements:

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Additional Agricultural qualification would be an advantage.
• 5 - 7 years' experience farm management position.
• Proven farm management or supervisory experience in horticulture or vegetable production.
• Knowledge of crop husbandry, fertiliser application, and chemical spraying.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Ability to manage HR processes including staff attendance and performance.
• Packhouse / processing exposure will be an advantage.
• Basic mechanical knowledge for troubleshooting and fixing farm equipment.
• Strong administrative skills, with proficiency in Excel, Google Sheets, and general farm administration systems.