Horticulturalist - Greenhouse and Protected Cropping Specialist

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid contributions

Performance-related incentives

Access to modern horticultural tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist to manage a state-of-the-art greenhouse operation in Port Elizabeth. This hands-on role covers environmental control, nutrient delivery, pest and disease management, and data-driven crop optimization.

The ideal candidate holds a degree or diploma in horticulture and has at least four years in greenhouse management, with practical experience in hydroponics or fertigation and IPM protocols.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of practical greenhouse management experience.
• Experience with IPM/IDM protocols.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations within the greenhouse facilities.
• Manage environmental control systems (temp, humidity, CO2, lighting).
• Develop and implement nutrient feeding programs (hydroponics, fertigation).
• Monitor plant health, growth and yield; address issues promptly.
• Supervise and train greenhouse staff.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance and environmental data.
• Contribute to R&D for new crops and cultivation techniques.

Skills

Horticulture

Plant physiology

IPM

Leadership

Education

Degree or Diploma in Horticulture

Tools

Hydroponics systems

Fertigation equipment

Environmental control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in high-value crop production, is seeking a dedicated and skilled Horticulturalist to manage their state-of-the-art greenhouse operations in Port Elizabeth . This is a hands-on role focused on the cultivation and optimization of protected cropping systems, including vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. You will be responsible for all aspects of greenhouse management, from environmental control and nutrient delivery to pest and disease management. The ideal candidate will have a passion for horticulture, a strong understanding of plant physiology, and practical experience in managing advanced protected cropping environments. This role requires on-site presence to ensure the highest standards of cultivation and productivity are maintained throughout the year.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations within the greenhouse facilities.
• Manage and optimize environmental control systems, including temperature, humidity, CO2, and lighting.
• Develop and implement precise nutrient feeding programs (hydroponics, fertigation).
• Monitor plant health, growth, and yield, identifying and addressing any issues promptly.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM/IDM) strategies.
• Conduct regular plant tissue and substrate analysis.
• Manage irrigation systems and water quality.
• Supervise and train greenhouse staff, ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance, environmental data, and operational activities.
• Contribute to research and development for new crop varieties and cultivation techniques within protected environments.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of practical experience in greenhouse management and protected cropping systems.
• In-depth knowledge of hydroponic, aeroponic, or substrate-based growing systems.
• Proficiency in managing environmental control systems and fertigation/irrigation equipment.
• Strong understanding of plant physiology, pathology, and entomology relevant to greenhouse crops.
• Experience with IPM/IDM protocols.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Good leadership and team management abilities.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic data analysis.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding agricultural setting.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of Rands .
• Medical aid contributions.
• Performance-related incentives.
• Access to modern horticultural technology and equipment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Stable employment within a reputable agricultural company.
• Supportive team environment focused on innovation and quality.