Horticulturalist - High-Value Crop Specialist

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Paid annual leave

Bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist to manage and optimize production on a farm near East London in the Eastern Cape. The role focuses on high-value crops, quality, yield, and efficient resource use, overseeing propagation, cultivation, pest management, and harvest to meet market standards.

You will lead a small team, develop crop plans, monitor irrigation and inputs, maintain records, and ensure compliance with agricultural regulations while exploring new varieties and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Horticulture or related field.
• 4+ years of practical experience in horticultural crop production, preferably with high-value crops.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and integrated crop management systems.
• Experience with greenhouse management or controlled environment agriculture is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of horticultural crop production, including propagation, planting, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement crop management plans considering soil, climate, and market requirements.
• Oversee irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control strategies to ensure plant health and productivity.
• Monitor crop performance and quality, adjusting as needed to meet targets.
• Supervise and train horticultural workers, ensuring safety and efficiency.
• Maintain accurate records of cultivation activities, inputs, yields, and quality data.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and quality standards.
• Research and recommend new plant varieties or cultivation techniques.
• Manage nursery and propagation areas for a steady supply of healthy material.

Skills

Plant physiology

Soil science

Pest management

Disease management

Crop management

Team management

Irrigation systems

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a grower of specialized horticultural products, is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist to manage and optimize production on their farm near East London . This role requires expertise in the cultivation of high-value crops, focusing on quality, yield, and efficient resource management. The Horticulturalist will oversee all aspects of plant growth, from propagation and cultivation to pest management and harvesting, ensuring products meet demanding market standards. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to a specialized agricultural venture in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of horticultural crop production, including propagation, planting, cultivation, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement detailed crop management plans, considering soil, climate, and market requirements.
• Oversee irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease control strategies to ensure optimal plant health and productivity.
• Monitor crop performance and quality, making adjustments as necessary to meet production targets.
• Supervise and train horticultural workers, ensuring tasks are performed efficiently and safely.
• Maintain accurate records of all cultivation activities, inputs, yields, and quality control data.
• Ensure compliance with relevant agricultural regulations and quality standards.
• Research and recommend new plant varieties or cultivation techniques to enhance product offerings.
• Manage the nursery and propagation areas for consistent supply of healthy plant material.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 4 years of practical experience in horticultural crop production, preferably with high-value or specialized crops.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and integrated crop management systems.
• Experience with greenhouse management or controlled environment agriculture is a plus.
• Proven ability to manage a small team and delegate tasks effectively.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with farm equipment and irrigation systems.
• Ability to work independently and solve problems effectively.
• A valid driver's license is required.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive annual salary ranging from to ZAR , depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, paid annual leave, and potential for performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for professional development and specialized training in horticulture will be available. This is a rewarding position for someone passionate about plant science and cultivation in the beautiful Eastern Cape region.