Horticulturalist - Greenhouse Operations Specialist

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 370,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary commensurate with经验

Health insurance coverage

Opportunities for professional growth

Access to advanced greenhouse tech

Generous leave allowance

Collaborative and supportive work env

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a skilled Horticulturalist to lead greenhouse operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on controlled environment agriculture, plant science, pest management, and yield optimization within a state-of-the-art facility.

You will work closely with R&D to implement innovative growing techniques, manage environmental systems, and ensure sustainable practices in a hands-on, on-site position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in commercial horticulture.
• Proven expertise in managing environmental control systems, IPM, and crop nutrition.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations within the greenhouse, including planting, propagation, transplanting, and harvesting.
• Manage environmental control systems (temperature, humidity, CO2, lighting) to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Implement and monitor integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs.
• Develop and manage nutrient and irrigation schedules for various crops, ensuring efficient resource use.
• Conduct regular plant health assessments and take proactive measures to address any issues.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, growth, yields, environmental data, and resource consumption.
• Supervise and train greenhouse staff, ensuring safe and efficient work practices.
• Collaborate with the research team on trials for new crop varieties and growing techniques.
• Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the greenhouse facilities and equipment.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in horticultural science and CEA technologies.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture

Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience in commercial horticulture

Strong observational skills and data interpretation

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and passionate Horticulturalist to manage and optimize operations within their advanced greenhouse facilities in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is focused on the cultivation of high-value horticultural crops, requiring expertise in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) and plant science. The Horticulturalist will be responsible for all aspects of plant care, environmental control, pest and disease management, and yield optimization within the greenhouse. This is an on-site position, demanding hands‑on involvement and a deep understanding of the specific needs of the crops being grown. You will work closely with the research and development team to implement innovative growing techniques and contribute to the company's commitment to producing premium quality produce. The ideal candidate will possess strong observational skills, a scientific approach to horticulture, and a dedication to sustainable growing practices within the KwaZulu-Natal region. This is an excellent opportunity to lead horticultural activities in a state‑of-the-art facility and contribute to the thriving agricultural sector of Durban.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations within the greenhouse, including planting, propagation, transplanting, and harvesting.
• Manage environmental control systems (temperature, humidity, CO2, lighting) to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Implement and monitor integrated pest and disease management (IPM) programs.
• Develop and manage nutrient and irrigation schedules for various crops, ensuring efficient resource use.
• Conduct regular plant health assessments and take proactive measures to address any issues.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, growth, yields, environmental data, and resource consumption.
• Supervise and train greenhouse staff, ensuring safe and efficient work practices.
• Collaborate with the research team on trials for new crop varieties and growing techniques.
• Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the greenhouse facilities and equipment.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in horticultural science and CEA technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience in commercial horticulture, with a focus on greenhouse operations.
• Proven expertise in managing environmental control systems and irrigation/fertigation in a CEA setting.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, pest/disease identification and control, and crop nutrition.
• Experience with a variety of horticultural crops, preferably including (mention specific relevant crops like vegetables, flowers, or herbs).
• Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data to make informed decisions.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
• Good communication and leadership abilities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends, especially during peak seasons.
• Knowledge of sustainable horticultural practices and IPM.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Access to advanced greenhouse technology.
• Generous leave allowance.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Potential for performance bonuses.