Farm Sustainability Coordinator - Organic Practices

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid contributions

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay is seeking a Farm Sustainability Coordinator to lead organic and regenerative farming initiatives across our farm network. The role focuses on developing, implementing, and monitoring sustainability programs to minimize environmental impact while enhancing agricultural resilience.

You will oversee organic certification processes, manage soil health and water strategies, and train staff to integrate sustainable practices into daily operations, reporting to management on

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainable Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive sustainability plans, with a focus on organic and regenerative agriculture.
• Monitor and assess current farming practices for their environmental impact and sustainability.
• Research and recommend innovative sustainable technologies and methods, such as water-efficient irrigation, cover cropping, and natural pest control.
• Oversee the transition to and maintenance of organic certification standards.
• Manage soil health programs, including nutrient management and erosion control.
• Implement water conservation strategies and monitor water usage across the farm.
• Promote biodiversity enhancement initiatives within and around the farm areas.
• Train farm staff on sustainable practices and their importance.
• Collect and analyze data related to resource usage, waste management, and environmental impact.
• Prepare reports on sustainability performance for management and regulatory bodies.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Data analysis

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural producer in the **Mossel Bay, Western Cape** region, is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Farm Sustainability Coordinator. This role is crucial for ensuring and advancing our commitment to environmentally sound and sustainable farming practices across all operations. The coordinator will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring sustainability initiatives, including organic farming methods, water conservation, soil health improvement, and biodiversity enhancement. You will work closely with farm managers and teams to integrate sustainable practices into daily operations, ensuring compliance with relevant certifications and regulations. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the ecological integrity of our agricultural landscape in the beautiful **Mossel Bay** area, promoting a healthier environment and more resilient food systems. The focus is on long-term viability and minimal environmental impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive sustainability plans, with a focus on organic and regenerative agriculture.
• Monitor and assess current farming practices for their environmental impact and sustainability.
• Research and recommend innovative sustainable technologies and methods, such as water-efficient irrigation, cover cropping, and natural pest control.
• Oversee the transition to and maintenance of organic certification standards.
• Manage soil health programs, including nutrient management and erosion control.
• Implement water conservation strategies and monitor water usage across the farm.
• Promote biodiversity enhancement initiatives within and around the farm areas.
• Train farm staff on sustainable practices and their importance.
• Collect and analyze data related to resource usage, waste management, and environmental impact.
• Prepare reports on sustainability performance for management and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainable Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in farm sustainability, organic farming, or environmental management within agriculture.
• In-depth knowledge of organic farming principles, soil science, and conservation techniques.
• Experience with environmental impact assessments and sustainability reporting.
• Familiarity with organic certification processes and relevant regulations in **South Africa**.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in data collection and analysis using standard software.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for environmental stewardship and sustainable agricultural development.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various farm sites in the **Mossel Bay** area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional development in sustainable agriculture are provided. This role offers the unique chance to make a tangible difference in promoting sustainable farming in a beautiful coastal environment.