Farm Manager - Large Scale Crop Production

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

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation on the farm

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for a major crop production operation in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role demands hands-on leadership to plan and oversee planting, irrigation, pest control, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.

You will lead a farm team, optimize inputs and machinery use, ensure quality standards, and drive profitability within sustainable farming practices across the farm. Accommodation may be provided.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Agriculture, Agronomy or related field as diploma or degree.
• Minimum 5 years of proven experience in large-scale crop production management.
• Strong knowledge of crop physiology, soil science, irrigation, and pest management.
• Experience with modern farm machinery and technology.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to develop and manage farm budgets.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with SA agricultural practices and regulations.
• Valid driver's license; willing to work long hours during peak seasons.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans, crop varieties, rotations, and planting schedules.
• Supervise and manage a team of farm workers, providing training and guidance.
• Oversee soil preparation, planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest/disease management.
• Ensure efficient use of farm machinery, equipment, and resources.
• Monitor crop growth and health, implementing corrective actions.
• Manage harvesting operations for timely collection of crops.
• Oversee post-harvest storage, handling and market preparation.
• Maintain records of farming activities, inputs, yields, and expenses.
• Implement health, safety, and environmental policies on the farm.
• Control farm budgets and manage operational costs.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Budget management

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Crop physiology

Soil science

Irrigation systems

Pest management

Education

Diploma or Degree in Agriculture/Agronomy

Tools

Modern farming technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural enterprise with extensive operations in the fertile region of Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . They are seeking a highly capable and experienced Farm Manager to oversee their large-scale crop production operations. This is a hands-on role requiring strong leadership, meticulous planning, and a deep understanding of modern farming techniques. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of all farming activities, including crop planning, planting, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. The goal is to maximize productivity, ensure quality standards, and optimize profitability while adhering to sustainable farming practices. This is a critical role with direct impact on the success of the operation in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual crop production plans, including selection of crop varieties, rotations, and planting schedules.


• Supervise and manage a team of farm workers, providing training and guidance.


• Oversee all aspects of crop cultivation, including soil preparation, planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest/disease management.


• Ensure efficient and effective use of farm machinery, equipment, and resources.


• Monitor crop growth and health, implementing corrective actions as needed.


• Manage harvesting operations to ensure timely and efficient collection of crops.


• Oversee post-harvest storage, handling, and preparation for market.


• Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, inputs, yields, and expenses.


• Implement and enforce health, safety, and environmental policies on the farm.


• Control farm budgets and manage operational costs effectively.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field (e.g., Diploma or Degree).


• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in managing large-scale crop production farms.


• Strong knowledge of crop physiology, soil science, irrigation systems, and pest management.


• Experience with modern farm machinery and technology.


• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.


• Ability to develop and manage farm budgets effectively.


• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.


• Knowledge of quality control standards and market requirements.


• Familiarity with South African agricultural practices and regulations.


• Valid driver's license and a willingness to work long hours during peak seasons.

Benefits

• competitive salary, accommodation on the farm, and a performance-based bonus structure.


• comprehensive medical aid and a provident fund are included.

This role provides a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to manage significant agricultural operations. You will be part of a well-established company committed to operational excellence and sustainability. Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the organization are available. Our client believes in investing in its people and fostering a productive work environment. We offer a stable position within a key agricultural region.