Farm Operations Manager - Organic Produce

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company-provided vehicle

Retirement fund contribution

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for a hands-on role near Benoni, Gauteng. You will oversee day-to-day farm activities, ensure organic production quality, and manage cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling while strictly adhering to organic certification standards.

This role requires strong leadership, farm presence, and the ability to direct teams, manage resources, and optimize productivity in a sustainable farming environment.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field.
• 4+ years farm management with organic focus.
• Proven leadership and ability to direct diverse workforce.
• In-depth knowledge of organic farming techniques.
• Experience with irrigation systems and farm machinery.
• Understanding of organic certification processes.
• Strong organizational and time management.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and financial basics.
• Willingness to work outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Oversee farm personnel, including farmworkers, supervisors, and equipment operators.
• Develop and implement crop production plans, including planting schedules, irrigation, and organic pest management.
• Oversee harvesting, grading, packing, and storage to maintain quality.
• Ensure compliance with organic certification standards and regulatory requirements.
• Manage farm resources, including water, equipment, and supplies.
• Monitor soil health and perform organic soil improvement.
• Enforce farm safety protocols and maintain secure working conditions.
• Maintain accurate farm production, labor, and expense records.
• Liaise with suppliers, distributors, and sales teams for smooth supply chain operations.

Skills

Leadership

Organic farming knowledge

Team management

Problem solving

Time management

Education

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture/Horticulture

Tools

Irrigation systems

Farm machinery maintenance

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding organic farm operation located near **Benoni, Gauteng**, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Farm Operations Manager. This role is crucial for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the farm, ensuring efficient production of high-quality organic produce. You will be responsible for managing all aspects of cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling, while strictly adhering to organic certification standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of organic farming principles, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. This is a hands-on position that requires significant time spent on the farm, directing teams and managing resources to achieve optimal productivity and profitability. Join a team passionate about delivering fresh, healthy food to the local community.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all farm personnel, including farmworkers, supervisors, and equipment operators.
• Develop and implement detailed crop production plans, including planting schedules, irrigation strategies, and pest/disease management using organic methods.
• Oversee the harvesting, grading, packing, and storage of produce to maintain quality and freshness.
• Ensure strict compliance with all organic certification standards and regulatory requirements.
• Manage farm resources, including water, equipment, and supplies, ensuring efficient allocation and maintenance.
• Monitor soil health and implement organic soil improvement techniques.
• Implement and enforce farm safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment.
• Maintain accurate farm records related to production, labor, and expenses.
• Liaise with suppliers, distributors, and sales teams to ensure smooth operation of the supply chain.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 4 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a significant focus on organic or sustainable farming.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and direct a diverse workforce.
• In-depth knowledge of organic farming techniques, crop rotation, composting, and natural pest control.
• Experience with irrigation systems, farm machinery operation, and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of organic certification processes and requirements.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic financial management.
• Physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions in **Benoni, Gauteng**.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive annual salary, commensurate with experience.
• Included are benefits such as a company-provided vehicle, a contribution to a retirement fund, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a reputable and growing organic food company are available.
• You will be an integral part of a mission-driven organization focused on health and sustainability.
• The role requires a full-time commitment on-site in **Benoni, Gauteng**.