Farm Operations Manager - Diverse Crop Portfolio

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Farm Operations Manager to supervise a diverse crop portfolio in Paarl, Western Cape. This hands-on leadership role drives efficient, sustainable, and profitable farming, covering planting, cultivation, harvest, and post-harvest activities.

You will plan budgets, manage inputs and labor, oversee machinery, ensure safety, and coordinate with suppliers to optimise output. A minimum of seven years in large-scale farming and a relevant degree are expected; a valid

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience managing large-scale farming operations.
• Strong knowledge of horticultural practices for diverse crops.
• Proven leadership and staff management abilities.
• Experience with farm machinery operation and maintenance.
• Financial management, budgeting, and record-keeping skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, planning, and communication abilities.
• Driver's license valid for Western Cape region.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and manage day-to-day farm operations across crops.
• Develop annual operating plans and budgets for various crops.
• Supervise farm workers, ensuring productivity, safety and quality.
• Oversee procurement of inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
• Implement pest, disease and weed control programs.
• Manage irrigation and water use across crops.
• Maintain records of activities, yields, inputs and financial performance.
• Ensure health, safety and environmental compliance on the farm.
• Coordinate harvesting schedules and post-harvest handling.
• Liaise with suppliers, service providers and agricultural stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budgeting

Record-keeping

Problem solving

Planning

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's or Diploma in Agriculture

Tools

Farm machinery operation

Modern farming technologies

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned and proactive Farm Operations Manager to oversee a diverse portfolio of crops in the beautiful region of Paarl, Western Cape . This role is central to ensuring the efficient, sustainable, and profitable cultivation and management of various agricultural produce. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing large-scale farming operations, a strong understanding of crop cycles for different species, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will be responsible for coordinating planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest activities, managing resources, and leading a dedicated farm team. This is a hands-on role for an individual passionate about agriculture and driving operational excellence. We are looking for a leader who can effectively manage complex farm logistics and ensure optimal output in Paarl .

Key Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and manage all day-to-day farm operations, including crop production, labor, and equipment. Develop and implement annual operating plans and budgets for various crop types. Supervise and manage a team of farm workers, ensuring productivity, safety, and quality standards are met. Oversee the procurement and management of agricultural inputs, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Implement and monitor effective pest, disease, and weed control programs. Manage irrigation systems and ensure efficient water usage across different crop requirements. Maintain comprehensive records of farm activities, yields, inputs, and financial performance. Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm in Paarl, Western Cape . Coordinate harvesting schedules and manage post-harvest handling and storage. Liaise with suppliers, service providers, and relevant agricultural stakeholders.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a closely related field. A minimum of 7 years of experience in managing large-scale agricultural operations, with a proven track record in diverse crop production. Strong knowledge of horticultural practices for a variety of crops. Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff. Experience with farm machinery operation, maintenance, and modern farming technologies. Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and record-keeping for farm operations. Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and planning abilities. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Adaptability to seasonal demands and challenging weather conditions. A valid driver's license is essential for this role in the Western Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund. You will have the opportunity to manage a varied and significant agricultural operation, working with diverse crops in a scenic location. The company provides a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional growth. This role offers substantial autonomy and the chance to make a significant contribution to the success and sustainability of the farming enterprise in Paarl . Join a respected agricultural business committed to quality and efficiency.