Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Mechanization

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided on or near the,

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a hands-on Farm Operations Manager near Klerksdorp, North West to lead day-to-day farming activities. You will oversee planting, cultivation, harvesting, and mechanized operations across large fields, ensuring efficiency, safety, and optimum equipment use.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field, at least six years in large-scale farm management, and proven leadership to manage a substantial workforce and budgets on-site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years in farm management, large-scale operations.
• Experience with heavy agricultural machinery.
• Knowledge of crop production cycles and soil science.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency with farm management software.
• Valid driver’s license; willingness to extended hours.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest.
• Manage and maintain a large fleet of agricultural machinery; preventative maintenance and repairs.
• Develop operational plans to maximise efficiency and productivity.
• Supervise and train a team of farm workers and machine operators; enforce safety.
• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel.
• Monitor crop progress, soil conditions, and weather; adjust practices.
• Develop and manage farm budgets; control costs and allocate resources.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations, environmental standards, and safety guidelines.
• Implement best practices in mechanized farming to improve yields and reduce costs.

Skills

Farm management

Mechanization

Team leadership

Budgeting

Safety compliance

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural producer operating extensive farmlands near Klerksdorp, North West, is seeking a highly competent Farm Operations Manager. This role is critical for overseeing the day-to-day management of large-scale farming activities, with a strong emphasis on mechanization and operational efficiency. You will be responsible for managing a diverse range of agricultural machinery, ensuring optimal deployment, maintenance, and utilization across vast cropping areas. The position requires a strategic thinker with a robust understanding of modern farming techniques, crop production cycles, and the logistical challenges associated with large-scale agricultural enterprises. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, the ability to manage a substantial workforce, and a keen eye for detail in managing resources and budgets. This is a hands-on role requiring a constant presence on the farm in Klerksdorp, North West to ensure seamless operations and achieve ambitious production targets. Your expertise will be key to maintaining and enhancing the productivity and profitability of our client's expansive agricultural operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest activities.
• Manage and maintain a large fleet of agricultural machinery, ensuring optimal performance, preventative maintenance, and timely repairs.
• Develop and implement operational plans to maximize efficiency and productivity across all farming activities.
• Supervise, train, and manage a team of farm workers and machine operators, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational standards.
• Manage farm inventory, including seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel, ensuring efficient procurement and usage.
• Monitor crop progress, soil conditions, and weather patterns, making necessary adjustments to farming practices.
• Develop and manage farm budgets, controlling operational costs and optimizing resource allocation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, environmental standards, and safety guidelines in the Klerksdorp area.
• Implement and monitor best practices in mechanized farming to improve yields and reduce operational expenses.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in farm management, with a significant focus on large-scale operations and mechanization.
• Proven experience in managing and maintaining heavy agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Strong knowledge of crop production cycles, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and supervise a diverse workforce.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in farm management software and basic accounting principles.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.
• Residency or willingness to relocate near Klerksdorp, North West for full-time, on-site operational management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Accommodation provided on or near the farm.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced agricultural technologies.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Access to modern farm equipment and infrastructure.
• A stable and long-term career opportunity within a reputable agricultural company.
• Potential for advancement to regional management roles.