Horticulturalist and Crop Specialist

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Training opportunities

Well-equipped facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a knowledgeable Horticulturalist and Crop Specialist in Polokwane to lead cultivation efforts, improve yields, and ensure sustainable growing practices. The role includes research and developing new crop varieties tailored to local climate and soil conditions.

The successful candidate will oversee propagation, planting, harvesting, and crop health monitoring, while guiding staff and maintaining detailed production records.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in commercial horticulture or crop management.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Experience with irrigation and greenhouse management systems is a plus.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and manage all aspects of horticultural crop production, including propagation, planting, and harvesting.
• Monitor crop health, identify pests and diseases, and implement effective control measures.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, fertilizers, and cultivation techniques.
• Provide expert advice on soil preparation, irrigation, and nutrient management for optimal crop growth.
• Supervise horticultural staff and ensure adherence to best practices and safety standards.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance, inputs, and yields.

Skills

Plant physiology

Pest and disease management

Observation skills

Independent and team work

Education

Degree or Diploma in Horticulture or Agriculture

Tools

Irrigation systems

Greenhouse management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Horticulturalist and Crop Specialist to join their team in Polokwane . This role involves managing and optimizing the cultivation of various horticultural crops, focusing on yield improvement, quality control, and sustainable growing practices. You will play a key role in research and development for new crop varieties and cultivation techniques suited to the local climate and soil conditions. This is an excellent opportunity for an expert in horticulture to contribute to a progressive agricultural business and develop innovative solutions for the region's unique horticultural potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and manage all aspects of horticultural crop production, including propagation, planting, and harvesting.
• Monitor crop health, identify pests and diseases, and implement effective control measures.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, fertilizers, and cultivation techniques.
• Provide expert advice on soil preparation, irrigation, and nutrient management for optimal crop growth.
• Supervise horticultural staff and ensure adherence to best practices and safety standards.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance, inputs, and yields.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in commercial horticulture or crop management.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.
• Experience with various irrigation and greenhouse management systems is a plus.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training.
• Access to well-equipped research and cultivation facilities.
• A positive and collaborative working environment.