Farm Manager - Sustainable & Organic Produce

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid leave

Accommodation support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager for an organic-focused operation in Upington. This on-site role requires leadership of all farm activities, ensuring compliance with organic standards and strong soil-water management to optimize yields and ecological stewardship.

The ideal candidate will bring 5+ years in farm management, knowledge of organic certification requirements, and a track record of leading teams in sustainable farming practices. A valid driver’s license is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in farm management, with emphasis on organic or sustainable farming.
• Knowledge of organic certification requirements and best practices.
• Strong understanding of crop physiology and soil science.
• Experience managing farm labor and building a positive team culture.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently on-site.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations including planning, planting, cultivation, pest and disease management, and harvesting.
• Ensure strict adherence to organic certification standards and regulations.
• Develop soil health strategies including composting, cover cropping, and minimal tillage.
• Manage water resources with water-saving irrigation techniques.
• Supervise and train farm workers, fostering a safe, productive environment.
• Maintain detailed farm records for operational, financial, and certification purposes.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural operation in Upington dedicated to sustainable and organic produce, is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Manager. This crucial role involves overseeing all aspects of farm operations, with a strong emphasis on organic certification standards, soil health, and efficient resource management. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing diverse crop production, leading farm teams, and implementing environmentally sound agricultural practices. You will be responsible for planning, planting, cultivation, pest and disease management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling, ensuring the highest quality organic produce. This is a hands-on, on-site position requiring a deep commitment to sustainable agriculture and a keen understanding of the challenges and rewards of organic farming in the Northern Cape region. You will be instrumental in driving the farm's productivity and its commitment to ecological stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily farm operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, pest and disease management, and harvesting.
• Ensure strict adherence to organic certification standards and regulations throughout all farming practices.
• Develop and implement soil health management strategies, including composting, cover cropping, and minimal tillage.
• Manage water resources efficiently, employing water-saving irrigation techniques.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, fostering a safe and productive work environment.
• Monitor crop performance, identify potential issues, and implement timely and effective solutions using organic-approved methods.
• Manage farm inventory, including seeds, fertilizers, pest control agents, and equipment.
• Oversee the maintenance and safe operation of farm machinery and equipment.
• Collaborate with sales and distribution channels to ensure timely delivery of high-quality organic produce.
• Maintain detailed farm records for operational, financial, and certification purposes.
• Champion sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices across the operation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management, with a significant focus on organic or sustainable farming practices.
• Demonstrated knowledge of organic certification requirements and best practices.
• Strong understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and integrated pest and disease management in an organic context.
• Experience in managing farm labor and fostering a positive team culture.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and make informed decisions on-site.
• Passion for sustainable agriculture and commitment to producing high-quality organic food.
• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunity to manage a farm committed to organic and sustainable principles.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• Employee discounts on farm produce.
• Potential for on-site accommodation assistance.
• A rewarding role contributing to sustainable food systems.