Farm Operations Supervisor - Mechanization & Technology

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Training on latest technologies

Tools provided

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Farm Operations Supervisor near Soweto to lead mechanization and technology integration on the farm. You will supervise machinery use, oversee maintenance, and drive precision agriculture initiatives to boost productivity and safety.

The role requires hands-on leadership, experience with GPS and drone technology, data management, and a diploma in Agricultural Engineering or Farm Mechanization.

Qualifications

• Diploma or certification in agricultural engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in farm machinery operation and supervision.
• Experience with precision agriculture technologies and GPS guidance.
• Knowledge of mechanical and hydraulic systems.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to work on-site near Soweto.

Responsibilities

• Supervise operation, maintenance, and repair of farm machinery.
• Implement and utilize precision agriculture technologies (GPS, RV applications, drones).
• Ensure safety protocols and standards are followed.
• Train workers on machinery operation and new technologies.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify upgrades.
• Manage machinery usage schedules and maintenance.
• Collect and analyze data from farm technology for insights.
• Coordinate with external service providers for repairs.
• Assist planning of field operations to maximize efficiency through mechanization.

Skills

Leadership

Team supervision

Communication

Organizational skills

Troubleshooting

Driver's license

Education

Diploma in Agricultural Engineering / Farm Mechanization

Tools

GPS guidance

Drone technology

Data management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural enterprise, is looking for a skilled Farm Operations Supervisor with a strong focus on Mechanization and Technology to join their team near Soweto, Gauteng. This role is responsible for overseeing the efficient use and maintenance of farm machinery, implementing new agricultural technologies, and supervising field operations. The ideal candidate will possess a solid understanding of modern agricultural equipment, precision farming techniques, GPS technology, and data management systems. You will play a crucial role in ensuring that farm operations are conducted efficiently, safely, and in line with technological advancements. This is a hands-on supervisory position requiring excellent practical skills, leadership abilities, and a commitment to optimizing farm productivity. You will work closely with the farm management team to integrate and utilize technology effectively across various farming activities in the Gauteng area. We are seeking an individual who is proactive, detail-oriented, and passionate about the role of technology in modern agriculture. Our client values innovation and invests in equipping their workforce with the latest tools and training.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise the operation, maintenance, and repair of farm machinery and equipment.
• Oversee the implementation and utilization of precision agriculture technologies, including GPS guidance, variable rate application, and drone technology.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and operational standards for all machinery and technological systems.
• Train farm workers on the proper operation and care of machinery and new technologies.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify areas for improvement or upgrades.
• Manage schedules for machinery usage and routine maintenance.
• Collect and assist in analyzing data generated by farm technology for operational insights.
• Coordinate with external service providers for specialized repairs or technical support.
• Assist in planning field operations to maximize efficiency through effective mechanization.

Requirements

• A diploma or relevant certification in Agricultural Engineering, Farm Mechanization, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in farm machinery operation, maintenance, and supervision.
• Proven experience with modern agricultural equipment and precision farming technologies.
• Understanding of basic mechanical and hydraulic systems.
• Knowledge of farm safety regulations and best practices.
• Strong leadership and team supervision skills.
• Good communication and organizational abilities.
• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and technological issues.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to work on the farm near Soweto.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and skills.
• Opportunities for training on the latest agricultural technologies.
• Company-provided tools and equipment.
• Health insurance and retirement fund.
• A supportive team environment focused on agricultural advancement.
• Generous paid time off.