Horticulturalist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Conferences/workshops

Plant collection access

Supportive work environment

Advancement opportunities

Employee discounts

Safety gear

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist to lead and develop horticultural operations in Centurion, Gauteng. The role covers cultivation, maintenance, and propagation, with emphasis on plant health and aesthetic value.

The candidate combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience within the South African context. Responsibilities include planning planting schedules, pest management, irrigation oversight, soil enrichment, and mentoring junior staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Horticulture or closely related field.
• 4–6 years hands-on horticulture experience including propagation and maintenance.
• Knowledge of Centurion/Gauteng climate plant species is essential.
• Experience with greenhouse management and nursery operations is a plus.
• Strong understanding of plant pathology, entomology, and soil science.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and implement horticultural activities such as planting, pruning, and propagation.
• Manage health and care of a wide variety of plants including disease/pest identification and treatment.
• Oversee irrigation systems and optimize water management for plant health.
• Conduct soil testing and implement soil enrichment programs.
• Supervise and train junior horticultural staff and volunteers.
• Maintain records of plant collections, treatments, and yields.
• Contribute to design and planning of new garden areas or installations.
• Stay updated on latest horticultural techniques and research.
• Ensure safety and environmental regulation compliance.

Skills

Plant propagation

Pest & disease management

Irrigation management

Soil science

Plant pathology

Plant entomology

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Horticulture

Tools

Horticultural equipment

Greenhouse tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a skilled and passionate Horticulturalist to manage and develop their horticultural operations in Centurion, Gauteng. This role is central to the cultivation, maintenance, and enhancement of diverse plant collections, ensuring their health, aesthetic appeal, and propagation success. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in horticulture combined with extensive practical experience, particularly within the South African context. You will be responsible for planning planting schedules, managing pest and disease issues, and contributing to the design and implementation of landscape or cultivation projects. This position is based in Centurion and is integral to our client's commitment to excellence in horticultural science and practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and implement horticultural activities, including planting, pruning, and propagation.


• Manage the health and care of a wide variety of plants, identifying and treating diseases and pests.


• Oversee irrigation systems and ensure optimal water management for plant health.


• Conduct soil testing and implement appropriate soil enrichment programs.


• Supervise and train junior horticultural staff and volunteers.


• Maintain accurate records of plant collections, treatments, and yields.


• Contribute to the design and planning of new garden areas or plant installations.


• Stay updated on the latest horticultural techniques and research.


• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations in all horticultural practices.


• Manage the procurement of horticultural supplies, tools, and equipment.


• Promote sustainable horticultural practices.


• Provide expert advice on plant selection and care to internal teams and potentially clients.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Botany, or a closely related field.


• A minimum of 4-6 years of hands‑on experience in horticulture, including plant propagation and maintenance.


• Specific knowledge of plant species suitable for the Centurion and wider Gauteng climate is essential.


• Experience with greenhouse management and nursery operations is a plus.


• Strong understanding of plant pathology, entomology, and soil science.


• Proficiency in using horticultural equipment and tools.


• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.


• Good communication and leadership abilities.


• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.


• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

• A competitive salary package, adjusted for experience and qualifications.


• Annual bonus structure linked to performance and project success.


• Medical aid and retirement fund contributions.


• Generous vacation time and paid leave.


• Opportunities for attending horticultural conferences and workshops.


• Access to a diverse and unique plant collection for professional growth.


• Supportive and collegial work environment.


• Potential for advancement to senior horticultural positions.


• Employee discounts on plants and related products.


• Company-provided work attire and safety gear.