Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Irrigation

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Company vehicle

Accommodation on-site

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Farm Operations Manager to oversee a significant agricultural enterprise in Gauteng. The role requires hands-on leadership to drive day-to-day farm activity, optimize resources, and maximize crop yields while ensuring safety and sustainability.

You will manage staff, machinery, and irrigation, collaborate with agronomists, and contribute to budgeting and planning for peak performance.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of proven farm management experience.
• Strong knowledge of crop cultivation, soil management and IPM.
• Experience with modern irrigation systems and water management.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm record-keeping and basic financial management.
• Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making under pressure.
• Familiarity with South African agricultural practices and regulations.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Commitment to sustainable and ethical farming.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive farm management plans (crop rotation, planting schedules, pest/disease control).
• Supervise and manage all farm staff, including tractor drivers and irrigation technicians.
• Oversee operation and maintenance of machinery and irrigation systems.
• Procure seeds, fertilisers, pesticides ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor crop health, growth and yield potential; take corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities and finances.
• Collaborate with agronomists and other specialists to optimize farming practices.
• Manage harvest logistics, storage and transportation.
• Assist budgeting and financial planning for farm operations.

Skills

Leadership

Crop cultivation

Soil management

IPM

Irrigation systems

Record-keeping

Financial management

Machinery operation

Problem solving

South African regulations

Driver's license

Sustainable farming

Education

Diploma in Agriculture

Deg ree in Agronomy

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and proactive Farm Operations Manager to oversee the efficient and profitable operation of a significant agricultural enterprise in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is critical for managing day-to-day farming activities, ensuring optimal resource utilization, and maximizing crop yields and quality. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, implement best practices in cultivation and harvesting, and maintain high standards of operational efficiency. This is a hands-on position requiring a strong blend of technical agricultural knowledge, leadership skills, and a commitment to sustainable farming methods. You will be responsible for all aspects of farm management, from planning and execution to monitoring and reporting, ensuring that the farm operates at peak performance. The goal is to achieve and exceed production targets while adhering to environmental regulations and promoting a safe working environment for all staff. The opportunity is ideal for a seasoned professional looking to make a significant impact in a key agricultural region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive farm management plans, including crop rotation, planting schedules, and pest/disease control strategies.
• Supervise and manage all farm staff, including agricultural workers, tractor drivers, and irrigation technicians, ensuring efficient task allocation and performance.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of farm machinery, equipment, and irrigation systems, ensuring optimal functionality and minimal downtime.
• Manage the procurement of farm inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor crop health, growth progress, and yield potential throughout the growing season, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities, including planting, harvesting, input usage, labor, and financial expenditures.
• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians (if applicable), and other technical specialists to optimize farming practices.
• Manage harvest operations to ensure maximum yield and quality, coordinating logistics for storage and transportation.
• Contribute to budgeting and financial planning for the farm operations in Tembisa, Gauteng .

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in farm management, preferably in large-scale operations.
• Strong knowledge of crop cultivation techniques, soil management, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with modern irrigation systems (drip, sprinkler, pivot) and water management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm record-keeping and basic financial management.
• Ability to operate and maintain farm machinery and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Familiarity with South African agricultural practices and regulations is essential.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• A strong commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid.
• A company vehicle and mobile phone will be provided.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and further training in advanced agricultural techniques are available.
• The role includes accommodation on or near the farm premises if required.
• Join a well-established organization dedicated to agricultural excellence in Tembisa, Gauteng , and become part of a team committed to innovation and sustainability.