Farm Operations Manager - Citrus Cultivation

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with performance‑dr

On-site housing or housing allowance

Comprehensive medical aid coverage

Retirement savings plan

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee extensive citrus orchards in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will lead planting, irrigation, pest control, harvesting, and post-harvest handling, ensuring productivity and quality.

The role requires 6+ years in progressive farm management, deep citrus knowledge for the Mpumalanga region, and strong leadership to manage a large workforce. Join a dynamic agricultural enterprise with growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field is required.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in farm management with a focus on citrus.
• Experience with Mpumalanga citrus varieties and pest/disease management is essential.
• Strong leadership and ability to manage a large agricultural workforce.

Responsibilities

• Manage all daily operations of citrus orchards including planting, pruning, irrigation, pest management and fertilization.
• Develop and implement annual operational plans to optimize yield, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Supervise and train farm workers, ensuring productivity and safety compliance.
• Oversee operation and maintenance of all farm machinery, equipment and infrastructure.
• Implement best practices in water management and soil conservation.
• Coordinate harvest and post-harvest activities including grading and packing.
• Maintain accurate records of activities, inputs, yields, and labor.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations, environmental standards, and labor laws.
• Collaborate with sales and logistics to meet market demands and schedules.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Team management

Farm management software

Record-keeping

Education

Diploma or Degree in Agriculture/Horticulture/Agronomy or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and hands-on Farm Operations Manager to oversee their extensive citrus orchards located in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This role is critical for the efficient and profitable production of high-quality citrus fruits. The Farm Operations Manager will be responsible for all aspects of orchard management, including planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. This position requires strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of citrus cultivation specific to the Mpumalanga region, and the ability to manage a large workforce effectively. You will be directly involved in ensuring the productivity and sustainability of the orchards, contributing to the company's success in the agricultural market. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational abilities, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to operational excellence. This is an exciting opportunity to manage significant agricultural operations in a prime citrus-growing region.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all daily operations of the citrus orchards, including planting, pruning, irrigation, pest and disease management, and fertilization.
• Develop and implement annual operational plans to optimize yield, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, ensuring productivity and adherence to safety standards.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of all farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Implement best practices in water management and soil conservation.
• Manage the harvesting process to ensure timely and efficient fruit collection while maintaining quality.
• Coordinate post-harvest activities, including fruit grading, packing, and preparation for transport.
• Maintain accurate records of all farm activities, inputs, yields, and labor.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, environmental standards, and labor laws.
• Collaborate with sales and logistics teams to meet market demands and delivery schedules.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a significant focus on citrus cultivation.
• In-depth knowledge of citrus varieties, cultivation techniques, pest and disease management specific to Mpumalanga.
• Proven experience in managing irrigation systems, fertigation, and soil health practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop a large agricultural workforce.
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations in an agricultural setting.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate farm machinery.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• On-site housing provided or a substantial housing allowance.
• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in horticultural management.
• Company vehicle for farm-related travel.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment within a leading agricultural enterprise.