Farm Operations Manager - Precision Agriculture Focus

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development & training

Access to state-of-the-art agri- tech

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Farm Operations Manager near Klerksdorp, North West. You will lead day-to-day farming activities with a strong focus on precision agriculture technologies to optimize yield and sustainability.

You will manage staff, coordinate planting and harvesting schedules, and drive data-informed decisions to improve profitability while maintaining environmental integrity. Hybrid work and ongoing professional development are available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field.
• Minimum 6 years in farm management, 3+ years in precision agriculture.
• Proven experience with GPS, variable rate tech, yield monitors and farm software.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day farm operations, planning, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Lead precision agriculture initiatives and data management systems.
• Manage farm staff, training, safety, and productivity.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors with data-driven adjustments.
• Manage equipment maintenance, budgeting, and procurement of inputs.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and safety standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists on crop management strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

GPS technology

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Agronomy

Tools

GPS systems

Farm management software

Variable rate technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural producer situated near Klerksdorp , North West, is seeking a dynamic Farm Operations Manager with a strong emphasis on precision agriculture. This role is critical for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the farm, ensuring maximum efficiency, yield optimization, and sustainable practices. The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience in modern farming techniques, particularly in the application of precision agriculture technologies such as GPS-guided equipment, variable rate application, drone surveillance, and data analytics. You will be responsible for managing farm staff, coordinating planting and harvesting schedules, overseeing equipment maintenance, and implementing innovative strategies to enhance farm output. This position requires a leader who is adept at managing both people and complex technological systems. The goal is to leverage technology to improve decision-making, reduce waste, and increase profitability while maintaining environmental integrity. Join a forward-thinking organization that is committed to adopting the latest advancements in agriculture to achieve superior results. Your role will be central to the success and modernization of our farming operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of daily farm operations, including crop planning, cultivation, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Implement and oversee precision agriculture technologies and data management systems.
• Supervise and train farm laborers and machinery operators, ensuring productivity and safety.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors, making data-driven adjustments.
• Manage farm equipment, ensuring proper maintenance, calibration, and utilization.
• Develop and manage budgets for farm operations, including labor, inputs, and equipment.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Source and manage agricultural inputs (seeds, fertilizers, pesticides) efficiently.
• Analyze farm data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with agronomists and agricultural scientists on crop management strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in farm management, with at least 3 years focused on precision agriculture.
• Proven experience with GPS systems, variable rate technology, yield monitors, and farm management software.
• Strong understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to analyze complex data and make informed operational decisions.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape of the North West province is a plus.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors in various conditions.
• Problem-solving abilities and a proactive, results-oriented approach.
• Commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible farming practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This position includes a comprehensive health insurance plan and a retirement savings contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in precision agriculture are provided.
• You will work with state-of-the-art agricultural technology and equipment.
• A performance-based bonus structure is in place to reward success.
• The role offers significant autonomy and the chance to lead a dedicated farm team.
• Generous annual leave is granted.
• The position is hybrid, offering a balance between on-site management and strategic planning flexibility.
• Join a company that values innovation and invests in its people's growth and well-being.