Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Horticulture

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid plan

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Farm Operations Manager to oversee a large horticultural operation in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role requires hands-on leadership to manage planting, cultivation, harvesting, and distribution while driving efficiency and profitability.

You will lead farm workers and supervisors, implement best horticultural practices, and ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and high crop quality. The position offers growth opportunities within a dynamic agricultural team.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of farm management experience in large-scale horticulture.
• Experience managing staff and operations in farm settings (Tembisa or similar).
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily farm operations including planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement farm management plans to hit production targets and quality standards.
• Manage farm labor: recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee maintenance and operation of machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Monitor crop health and yield; address issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.
• Manage inventory of supplies, equipment, and harvested produce.
• Coordinate with suppliers, distributors, and buyers for timely delivery.
• Implement and promote sustainable farming practices.

Skills

Farm management

Leadership

Staff supervision

Horticulture knowledge

Communication

Education

Agriculture/Horticulture degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a skilled and energetic Farm Operations Manager to oversee a significant horticultural operation in Tembisa, Gauteng. This role demands a leader with extensive experience in managing day-to-day farm activities, from planting and cultivation to harvesting and distribution. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and profitable operation of the farm, maintaining high standards of crop quality and yield. You will lead a team of farm workers and supervisors, fostering a productive and safe working environment. This is a critical position that requires a hands‑on approach and a strong understanding of horticultural best practices relevant to the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise all daily farm operations, including planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement farm management plans to achieve production targets and quality standards.
• Manage farm labor, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Monitor crop health and yield, identifying and addressing any issues promptly.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.
• Manage inventory of supplies, equipment, and harvested produce.
• Coordinate with suppliers, distributors, and buyers to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery.
• Implement and promote sustainable farming practices.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in farm management, preferably in large‑scale horticulture.
• Proven experience in managing staff and operations in a farm setting within Tembisa or similar agricultural environments.
• Solid understanding of horticultural techniques, crop cycles, and pest/disease management.
• Familiarity with farm machinery operation and maintenance.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing weather conditions and market demands.
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Must be physically fit and able to work in various weather conditions.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a comprehensive medical aid plan and a provident fund. You will have the opportunity to work with modern agricultural equipment and technologies in Tembisa. Professional development opportunities and a supportive management team are integral to this role. The company is committed to fostering a positive work environment and providing employees with the resources needed for success in Gauteng's agricultural sector.