Farm Operations Manager - Precision Agriculture

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Accommodation provided

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Farm Operations Manager in Centurion to lead day‑to‑day farming activities and drive precision agriculture adoption across a large-scale operation. The role requires hands‑on leadership, managing a diverse team of farm workers and technicians, while optimizing productivity and sustainability in the Centurion landscape.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in modern farming techniques, crop production cycles, soil science, pest management, and data‑driven

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness Management, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management or agricultural operations.
• Proven experience with precision agriculture technologies and data-driven farm management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent understanding of crop production cycles, soil science, and pest/disease management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all day‑to‑day farming operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post‑harvest activities.
• Implement and manage precision agriculture technologies, such as GPS guidance, drone monitoring, and variable rate application systems.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost‑effectiveness and profitability.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, supervisors, and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental best practices.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and weather patterns, making timely operational adjustments.
• Manage the maintenance and efficient use of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Oversee inventory management for seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other essential supplies.
• Collaborate with the procurement and sales teams to ensure alignment with market demands and supply chain efficiency.
• Implement and enforce strict quality control measures throughout the production cycle.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budget management

Data-driven farming

Precision agriculture

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural enterprise located in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a results-oriented Farm Operations Manager. This role is central to overseeing the daily operations of a large-scale farming division, with a specific emphasis on implementing and managing precision agriculture technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of modern farming techniques, operational efficiency, and team leadership. This position requires hands‑on management and a deep commitment to optimizing productivity and sustainability within Centurion's agricultural landscape. Join us to lead a dedicated team and drive operational excellence in a vital industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day‑to‑day farming operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post‑harvest activities.
• Implement and manage precision agriculture technologies, such as GPS guidance, drone monitoring, and variable rate application systems.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring cost‑effectiveness and profitability.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, supervisors, and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental best practices.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and weather patterns, making timely operational adjustments.
• Manage the maintenance and efficient use of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Oversee inventory management for seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other essential supplies.
• Collaborate with the procurement and sales teams to ensure alignment with market demands and supply chain efficiency.
• Implement and enforce strict quality control measures throughout the production cycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management or agricultural operations.
• Proven experience with precision agriculture technologies and data-driven farm management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide farm staff.
• Excellent understanding of crop production cycles, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• Strong financial acumen and budget management experience.
• Knowledge of South African agricultural practices and regulations is essential.
• Ability to work long hours during peak seasons and adapt to changing conditions.
• Physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Benefits

• Annual salary of R , reflecting your expertise and contribution.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Accommodation may be provided or subsidized.
• Health insurance and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for further training and professional development in agricultural management.
• Direct impact on the success and growth of a key agricultural operation in Centurion.