Horticulturalist / Crop Specialist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Horticulturalist / Crop Specialist near Sandton to lead crop cultivation, optimize growth, quality and yield. You will implement advanced horticultural techniques, manage pest/disease control, and refine irrigation and nutrition programs, with a focus on sustainable practices.

The role requires 4–6 years in commercial horticulture, strong soil science knowledge, and a collaborative mindset to work with research teams and farm staff in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field.
• 4-6 years of practical experience in commercial horticulture or crop management.
• Proven expertise in crop cultivation, pest and disease management, and integrated crop management (ICM).
• Strong knowledge of soil science, plant nutrition, and irrigation techniques.
• Experience with data collection and analysis related to crop performance.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement crop management plans for a variety of high-value crops.
• Supervise planting, cultivation, and harvesting to ensure quality and yield.
• Monitor crop health, diagnose diseases and pests, and apply control measures.
• Design and manage irrigation systems for efficient water use.
• Develop fertilization programs to optimize nutrition and soil health.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate varieties and cultivation techniques.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance and environmental conditions.
• Collaborate with research teams on innovative horticultural practices.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and environmental regulations.
• Provide training to farm staff on best practices.
• Stay updated on advancements in horticulture and crop science.

Skills

Data collection & analysis

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Horticultural software

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Horticulture/Agronomy/Plant Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent horticultural enterprise specializing in high-value crops, is seeking an experienced Horticulturalist / Crop Specialist to join their team near Sandton . This role involves overseeing crop cultivation, ensuring optimal growth, quality, and yield. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing advanced horticultural techniques, managing pest and disease control, optimizing irrigation and nutrition programs, and contributing to research and development initiatives. This position requires a deep understanding of plant physiology, soil science, and sustainable growing practices, with a focus on innovation within the Gauteng agricultural landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement crop management plans for a variety of high-value horticultural crops.
• Supervise planting, cultivation, and harvesting processes to ensure optimal quality and yield.
• Monitor crop health, diagnose plant diseases and pest infestations, and implement effective control measures.
• Design and manage irrigation systems to ensure appropriate water delivery and conservation.
• Develop and manage fertilization programs to optimize plant nutrition and soil health.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate new varieties, cultivation techniques, and agricultural inputs.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance, inputs, and environmental conditions.
• Collaborate with research teams to develop and implement innovative horticultural practices.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, including food safety and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical guidance and training to farm staff on horticultural best practices.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in horticulture, crop science, and sustainable agriculture.
• Contribute to strategic planning for crop production and diversification.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• A minimum of 4-6 years of practical experience in commercial horticulture or crop management.
• Proven expertise in crop cultivation, pest and disease management, and integrated crop management (ICM).
• Strong knowledge of soil science, plant nutrition, and irrigation techniques.
• Experience with data collection and analysis related to crop performance.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Proficiency in relevant horticultural software and data management tools.
• A valid driver's license is required for site visits in and around the Sandton area.
• Passion for sustainable and innovative horticultural practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development, including attending industry conferences.
• This role offers a hybrid work model, allowing for strategic planning and analysis, with regular site visits to our cultivation facilities near Sandton.

Join a dynamic company at the forefront of horticultural innovation in South Africa .