Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Cultivation

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave

Professional development

Equipment access

Hybrid role

Team environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Farm Operations Manager in Tembisa, Gauteng, to oversee large-scale cultivation. You will lead field teams, implement efficient farming practices, manage budgets, and ensure safety and quality across planting to harvest.

The role blends on-site leadership with hybrid administrative tasks, requiring strong strategic planning, supplier coordination, and compliance with agricultural standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness, or related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in farm management or similar agricultural operations role.
• Proven experience in managing diverse teams and operational budgets.
• In-depth knowledge of crop production cycles, soil management, pest and disease control, and irrigation systems.
• Familiarity with modern farming technologies and equipment.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to motivate and manage staff.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting, balancing on-site management with remote administrative tasks.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA area as needed.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily farm operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize crop yield, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Manage labor resources, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance evaluation of farm staff.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Develop and manage the farm's operational budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Implement and monitor quality control measures throughout the production process.
• Maintain accurate records of farm activities, production data, inventory, and financial transactions.
• Collaborate with management to set production targets and strategic goals for the farm.
• Foster a culture of safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement among the farm team.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the agricultural sector, is seeking a seasoned Farm Operations Manager to oversee large-scale cultivation operations. This pivotal role involves managing all aspects of farm production, from planting and crop maintenance to harvesting and post-harvest activities, ensuring optimal efficiency and profitability. You will be responsible for leading a dedicated team, implementing innovative farming techniques, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. This is an exciting opportunity to drive operational excellence in a challenging yet rewarding environment located in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA. The ideal candidate will possess a strong leadership aptitude and a deep understanding of modern agricultural practices. We are looking for an individual who can effectively manage resources, optimize workflows, and contribute to the company's growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Direct and manage all daily farm operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.

Develop and implement operational strategies to maximize crop yield, quality, and resource efficiency.

Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.

Manage labor resources, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance evaluation of farm staff.

Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.

Develop and manage the farm's operational budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.

Implement and monitor quality control measures throughout the production process.

Maintain accurate records of farm activities, production data, inventory, and financial transactions.

Collaborate with management to set production targets and strategic goals for the farm.

Foster a culture of safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement among the farm team.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.

Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in farm management or a similar agricultural operations role, with a focus on large-scale cultivation.

Proven experience in managing diverse teams and operational budgets.

In-depth knowledge of crop production cycles, soil management, pest and disease control, and irrigation systems.

Familiarity with modern farming technologies and equipment.

Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage staff effectively.

Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.

Ability to work effectively in a hybrid setting, balancing on-site management with remote administrative tasks.

Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA area as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous base salary and potential performance bonuses.

Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions are provided.

Paid annual leave and sick leave are standard.

Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the company are encouraged.

Access to state-of-the-art farm equipment and technology.

A supportive team environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.

This hybrid role offers flexibility while ensuring a strong presence in the operational heart of Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA.

Enjoy the benefits of working with a forward-thinking agricultural enterprise.