Farm Operations Manager - Diversified Crops

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund contributions

Professional growth

Modern agricultural technology

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Gauteng seeks an experienced Farm Operations Manager to lead daily farming activities across crop cultivation, irrigation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling with a focus on sustainability and productivity in Tembisa.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture-related field, 6+ years of farm management experience, IPM and soil science knowledge, and proficiency in farm management software. Some remote work is possible within a hybrid setup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy or related field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• 6+ years of progressive farm management experience.
• Solid understanding of crop physiology, soil science and IPM principles.
• Experience with modern farm machinery and irrigation technologies relevant to the Tembisa region.
• Strong leadership, team management and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of all farm operations, including crop selection and planting schedules.
• Manage irrigation, nutrient application and pest controls to optimize yield and health.
• Supervise and coordinate farmhands, agronomists and machinery operators.
• Monitor weather and crop development to mitigate risks and seize opportunities.
• Enforce health and safety protocols across all farm activities.
• Maintain records of activities, yields, expenses and production data.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Data analysis

IPM knowledge

Farm management software

Field/office work balance

Sustainable farming

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Horticulture/Agronomy

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Irrigation technologies

Modern farm machinery

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a progressive agricultural producer with extensive operations in Tembisa, Gauteng, focused on cultivating a diverse range of high-value crops. We are looking for an experienced and dedicated Farm Operations Manager to lead our daily farming activities, ensuring peak operational efficiency and productivity. This role is pivotal in managing all aspects of crop cultivation, from planting and irrigation to harvesting and post-harvest handling, while championing sustainable practices. You will be at the forefront of implementing innovative farming techniques to maximize output and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning and execution of all farm operations, including crop selection, planting schedules, and resource allocation.
• Manage irrigation systems, nutrient application, and pest and disease control programs to optimize crop health and yield.
• Supervise and coordinate the work of farmhands, agronomists, and machinery operators, ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Monitor weather patterns and crop development, making strategic decisions to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.
• Implement and enforce health and safety protocols across all farm activities.
• Manage farm equipment and machinery maintenance to ensure operational readiness.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities, yields, expenses, and production data for reporting.
• Collaborate with the procurement team on the timely acquisition of seeds, fertilizers, and other necessary inputs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and environmental standards in Gauteng.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• At least 6 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a proven ability to manage large-scale diversified crop operations.
• Solid understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management (IPM) principles.
• Experience with modern farm machinery and irrigation technologies relevant to the Tembisa region.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational and planning capabilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments, with a portion of the role being remote.
• A commitment to sustainable and environmentally sound farming practices.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary package, a comprehensive benefits scheme including medical aid and pension fund contributions, and opportunities for professional growth within a respected agricultural organization. You will have the autonomy to manage operations and contribute to strategic decision-making. The role also provides access to modern agricultural technologies and a collaborative work environment focused on innovation and sustainability in South Africa.