Horticulturalist Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Horticulturalist Manager based in Polokwane, Limpopo, to lead a team of horticultural technicians and gardeners. You will oversee daily garden operations, plan planting schemes, and ensure high standards of plant health, conservation, and public presentation.

The role requires a degree or diploma in horticulture or related field, at least five years in professional horticulture with supervisory experience, and strong IPM knowledge.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in professional horticulture with supervisory experience.
• Extensive knowledge of plant identification, cultivation, and care of diverse species.
• Experience in landscape design and maintenance.
• Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in Polokwane weather.
• Passion for plant conservation principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of horticultural technicians and gardeners, providing guidance and training.
• Oversee the daily operations of the gardens, including planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
• Develop and implement horticultural plans, ensuring plant health and vitality.
• Manage pest and disease control programs using IPM strategies.
• Maintain garden infrastructure, including irrigation systems and pathways.
• Contribute to plant conservation programs and propagation efforts.
• Ensure high standards of horticultural excellence and aesthetic presentation.
• Manage supplies, tools and equipment, ensuring proper maintenance.
• Collaborate with researchers and educators on plant-related projects and public outreach.
• Adhere to safety protocols and environmental regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Outdoor work suitability

Education

Degree or Diploma in Horticulture/Botany/Plant Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned botanical garden and research institution, is seeking a skilled and passionate Horticulturalist Manager to oversee the cultivation, maintenance, and development of its extensive plant collections. Based in Polokwane, Limpopo , this role is pivotal in ensuring the health, beauty, and scientific integrity of the gardens. You will lead a team of dedicated horticultural staff, manage horticultural operations, and contribute to plant conservation efforts. The ideal candidate will possess a deep knowledge of horticulture, plant science, and landscape management, combined with strong leadership and organizational skills. You will be responsible for planning planting schemes, managing pest and disease control, and ensuring the highest standards of horticultural care. This is an exciting opportunity to manage a significant horticultural resource and contribute to the greening initiatives within Polokwane, Limpopo . Your expertise will be crucial in preserving and showcasing a diverse range of plant species for public enjoyment and scientific study.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of horticultural technicians and gardeners, providing guidance and training.
• Oversee the daily operations of the gardens, including planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
• Develop and implement horticultural plans, ensuring the health and vitality of plant collections.
• Manage pest and disease control programs using integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Maintain and improve garden infrastructure, including irrigation systems and pathways.
• Contribute to plant conservation programs and propagation efforts.
• Ensure the highest standards of horticultural excellence and aesthetic presentation.
• Manage horticultural supplies, tools and equipment, ensuring their proper maintenance.
• Collaborate with researchers and educators on plant-related projects and public outreach.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and environmental\l regulations in Limpopo .

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in professional horticulture, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Extensive knowledge of plant identification, cultivation, and care for a wide range of species.
• Proven experience in landscape design and maintenance.
• Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and planning abilities.
• Ability to work effectively outdoors in various weather conditions in Polokwane .
• Passion for plants and a commitment to horticultural best practices.
• Basic knowledge of plant conservation principles.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and a provident fund.
• We provide opportunities for professional development, including workshops, seminars, and educational tours.
• Employees work in a beautiful and stimulating environment with access to diverse plant collections.
• The organization fosters a collaborative and supportive team culture.
• Generous annual leave and employee wellness programs are available.
• This role requires on-site presence, ensuring direct engagement with the gardens and team in Polokwane .