Farm Manager - Diversified Crop Production

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Farm Manager to lead crop production operations in Benoni, Gauteng. This on-site role requires expertise in agronomy, crop science, and farm management to drive yields and optimize resources.

You will develop annual production plans, supervise field operations, manage labour, monitor crop health, ensure safety and environmental compliance, maintain records, and collaborate with sales to align production with market demand.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of progressive farm management experience.
• Strong knowledge of crop physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation.
• Experience leading farm labor and teams.
• Ability to operate and maintain farm equipment.
• Proficient in farm management software and data analysis.
• Commitment to sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Willing to reside or commute to Benoni, Gauteng; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans.
• Oversee field operations: land prep, planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, harvest.
• Manage farm labor: recruitment, training, supervision, evaluation.
• Monitor crop health and growth with data and field observations.
• Manage resources: water, fertilizers, pesticides, equipment for sustainability.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of farm machinery.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental rules; maintain records.
• Coordinate with sales and marketing to align production with demand.

Skills

Farm management

Leadership

Data analysis

Irrigation

Pest management

Soil science

Sustainable farming

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture / Agronomy / Horticulture

Tools

Farm management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established agricultural entity, is seeking a proactive and experienced Farm Manager to lead their diverse crop production operations in Benoni, Gauteng . This essential on-site role involves overseeing all aspects of crop cultivation, from planning and planting to harvesting and post-harvest management. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of agronomy, crop science, and farm management principles, coupled with excellent leadership and organizational skills. You will be responsible for optimizing yields, managing resources efficiently, and ensuring the farm operates at peak productivity while adhering to sustainable practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans, including crop selection, rotation, and scheduling.
• Oversee all field operations, including land preparation, planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Manage farm labor, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance evaluation, ensuring a productive and safe work environment.
• Monitor crop health and growth, utilizing data and field observations to make timely management decisions.
• Manage farm resources, including water, fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment, ensuring efficient and sustainable use.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm machinery and infrastructure.
• Implement and enforce quality control standards to ensure high-quality produce.
• Manage post-harvest activities, including storage, grading, and preparation for market.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and agricultural regulations.
• Maintain accurate farm records, including production data, financial expenses, and inventory.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market demands.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a proven track record in crop production.
• Comprehensive knowledge of crop physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation techniques.
• Demonstrated experience in managing farm labor and leading teams effectively.
• Strong understanding of farm equipment operation and maintenance.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to reside in or commute regularly to the farm operations in Benoni, Gauteng . A valid driver's license is essential.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and includes performance-based bonuses. Our client provides comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and generous paid time off. Employees have access to modern farming technology and opportunities for continuous professional development. We foster a supportive and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued. Join our team and play a key role in the success of our agricultural operations in Gauteng.