Farm Operations Manager - Organic Produce Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid & provident fund

Generous annual leave

Housing allowance or accommodation

Professional development & training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for a rapidly expanding organic farm in Centurion, Gauteng. This hands-on role requires leadership and deep knowledge of organic farming, crop rotation, soil management, and sustainable practices to steer daily agricultural activities.

You will manage a dedicated team, optimize operations, and ensure high-quality produce while collaborating with sales to forecast yields and timely deliveries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of farm management experience in organic farming.
• Proven staff management and leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of organic certification standards and IPM.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations including planting, irrigation, pest management and harvesting.
• Lead and train farm workers, provide supervision and performance reviews.
• Develop crop plans aligned with organic certification standards.
• Monitor soil health and manage composting and fertilization programs.
• Maintain equipment and manage inventory of seeds and supplies.
• Collaborate with sales to forecast yields and ensure timely delivery of produce.

Skills

Farm management experience

Leadership skills

Crop planning

Soil science

Integrated Pest Management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding organic farm located in **Centurion, Gauteng, ZA**, is seeking an experienced and passionate Farm Operations Manager to oversee all aspects of their daily agricultural activities. This is a hands‑on role requiring a strong leader with a deep understanding of organic farming principles, crop rotation, soil management, and sustainable agricultural practices. You will be responsible for managing a dedicated team, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring the highest quality of produce is cultivated. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in farm management, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth of a respected organic producer in the **Gauteng** region and promote healthy, environmentally conscious food production.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest and disease management, and harvesting.
• Manage and lead a team of farm workers, providing training, supervision, and performance evaluations.
• Develop and implement crop plans, ensuring adherence to organic certification standards.
• Monitor soil health, implement composting and fertilization programs, and manage water resources efficiently.
• Maintain farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring they are in good working order and safely operated.
• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and other farm supplies.
• Ensure compliance with all organic certification requirements and relevant agricultural regulations.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to forecast yields and ensure timely delivery of produce.
• Implement best practices for animal welfare if applicable to the farm's operations.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the farm's long-term goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management, with a significant focus on organic farming.
• Proven experience in managing staff and leading teams in an agricultural setting.
• Strong knowledge of organic certification standards (e.g., USDA Organic, EU Organic) and best practices.
• Proficiency in crop planning, soil science, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in demanding physical conditions and varying weather.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to operate farm machinery.
• Familiarity with the agricultural practices and challenges in the **Centurion** area.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Generous annual leave.
• Accommodation or housing allowance may be provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in organic farming techniques.
• A direct impact on producing high-quality organic food.
• Supportive and dedicated team environment.