Horticulturalist - Pretoria Based (Office/Field Hybrid)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Access to state-of-the-art researchfac

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks a skilled Horticulturalist to join a renowned horticultural research institution. The role blends hands-on fieldwork with data analysis and report writing, operating in a hybrid model with regular presence on-site and remote tasks.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Horticulture or Plant Science, at least 4 years of hands-on experience, and strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and plant pathology.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in horticulture, research, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology.
• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Proficiency in using horticultural equipment and greenhouse management systems.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, on-site and remote settings.
• Good communication and report-writing skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage horticultural research trials, focusing on various plant species and cultivation methods.
• Conduct detailed plant health assessments, identify diseases and pests, and develop management strategies.
• Monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, light, soil) and adjust practices to optimize growth.
• Collect, record, and analyze experimental data, preparing comprehensive reports and presentations.
• Oversee the propagation, cultivation, and care of diverse plant collections.
• Manage greenhouse operations, ensuring optimal conditions for research and production.
• Collaborate with plant scientists, researchers, and technicians on interdisciplinary projects.
• Stay updated on latest horticultural technologies and best practices.
• Assist in developing educational materials and guidance for stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and laboratory management standards.

Skills

Research mindset

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture/Plant Science

Master's degree in Horticulture/Plant Science

Tools

Greenhouse equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned horticultural research and development institution located in Pretoria, seeks a skilled Horticulturalist to join their innovative team. This position operates on a hybrid model, requiring regular presence at our Pretoria facilities for practical work and collaboration, complemented by remote capabilities for data analysis and report writing. You will be involved in developing and executing research projects focused on enhancing plant health, optimizing growing conditions, and exploring novel horticultural techniques. This role is crucial for advancing our understanding of plant science and developing sustainable cultivation methods. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in horticulture coupled with practical experience and a passion for plant research and development. You will work within a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of horticultural science and contributing to the agricultural sector's growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage horticultural research trials, focusing on various plant species and cultivation methods.


• Conduct detailed plant health assessments, identify diseases and pests, and develop management strategies.


• Monitor environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, light, soil) and adjust practices to optimize plant growth.


• Collect, record, and analyze experimental data, preparing comprehensive reports and presentations.


• Oversee the propagation, cultivation, and care of diverse plant collections.


• Manage greenhouse operations, ensuring optimal conditions for research and production.


• Collaborate with plant scientists, researchers, and technicians on interdisciplinary projects.


• Stay updated on the latest horticultural technologies, research findings, and best practices.


• Assist in developing educational materials and providing guidance to stakeholders.


• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and laboratory management standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related field.


• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in horticulture, research, or a similar role.


• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, entomology, and plant pathology.


• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.


• Proficiency in using horticultural equipment and greenhouse management systems.


• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing tasks effectively in both on-site and remote settings.


• Good communication and report-writing skills in English.


• Familiarity with Pretoria's specific climate and common horticultural challenges is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.


• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility between office/field and remote work.


• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.


• Opportunities for continuous professional development and further specialization.


• Be part of a leading institution contributing to agricultural innovation.


• Exposure to diverse plant species and cutting-edge horticultural practices.