Farm Operations Manager — Crops, Irrigation & Equipment

Farm Manager SA; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Farm Manager SA is seeking an experienced farm manager for a large, diversified operation in rural South Africa. The role covers daily oversight of crop cycles (maize, wheat, lucerne, onions), irrigation scheduling, input procurement, and maintenance coordination across a 520+ hectare footprint.

You will lead farm staff, coordinate contractors, ensure safety, quality and productivity, and engage with local association structures. Availability to live in a rural farming community is required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years farming/farm management experience.
• Experience with wheat, maize & lucerne.
• Pecan nut/orchard experience advantageous.
• Proven experience with large combine harvesters and planting equipment.
• Irrigation scheduling experience.
• Maintenance oriented with proactive troubleshooting of mechanical, structural and operational issues on farm.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to work independently.
• Computer literate.
• Valid driver's license.
• Basic knowledge of rural electrical systems for minor troubleshooting.
• Ability to use smartphones and agricultural apps.
• Record-keeping and log management.
• Comfortable living in a rural farming community and engaging respectfully with local associations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate routine tasks across the farm and ensure work is completed safely, on time, and to standard.
• Manage full production cycles for crops (maize, wheat, onions, lucerne) including soil prep, planting, watering, fertilizer, pest/disease control and harvest.
• Irrigation scheduling, chemical/fertilizer application, and crop monitoring through harvest and post-harvest storage.
• Oversee ordering for farm inputs and maintenance, sourcing quotes and coordinating with suppliers.
• Oversee water distribution, pump checks and maintenance of water systems across 520+ hectare footprint.
• Lead pecan nut orchards management including inputs, irrigation, harvest and contractor coordination.
• Manage livestock operations: grazing, breeding, health, handling, records and sales.
• Provide clear direction to staff, supervise and delegate tasks, foster team culture and training.
• Maintain safety, environmental and regulatory standards across the operation.

Job description

Farm Manager SA is seeking an experienced farm manager for a large, diversified operation in rural South Africa. The role covers daily oversight of crop cycles (maize, wheat, lucerne, onions), irrigation scheduling, input procurement, and maintenance coordination across a 520+ hectare footprint.

You will lead farm staff, coordinate contractors, ensure safety, quality and productivity, and engage with local association structures. Availability to live in a rural farming community is required.