Horticulturalist - Protected Cropping Specialist

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Access to cutting-edge technology and设

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Horticulturalist specializing in protected cropping for operations near Centurion, Gauteng. You will manage greenhouse and controlled environment production, optimize climate, nutrients, and IPM strategies, and lead a small team to deliver premium crops year-round.

The role requires a strong background in plant physiology, fertigation, and data-driven decision making, with flexibility to work extended hours during peak periods in Centurion’s horticultural

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in commercial protected cropping (greenhouses, vertical farms).
• Strong knowledge of hydroponics, aeroponics, or other soilless cultivation systems.
• Expertise in environmental control systems and fertigation management.
• Familiarity with IPM/IDM principles in protected environments.
• Proven ability to analyze data and make informed operational decisions.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to lead a small team.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of protected cropping facilities, including environmental controls (temp, humidity, CO2, light).
• Develop and execute crop-specific cultivation plans, including seeding, transplanting, and harvesting schedules.
• Monitor plant health, nutrient levels, and water requirements, adjusting inputs as necessary.
• Implement IPM/IDM strategies within a controlled environment.
• Optimize resource utilization, including water, energy, and nutrients, for sustainable production.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, growing media, and techniques suitable for Centurion, Gauteng.
• Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement and increase yield and quality.
• Supervise and train junior staff and technicians.
• Maintain accurate records of cultivation activities, inputs, and outcomes.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to align production with market needs.

Skills

Hydroponics

Aeroponics

IPM/IDM

Data analysis

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture/Plant Science

Tools

Environmental control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering enterprise in advanced horticultural practices, is seeking a skilled Horticulturalist with a specialization in protected cropping systems for their operations near Centurion, Gauteng. This role is crucial for managing and optimizing the production of high-value crops within controlled environments such as greenhouses and vertical farms. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in plant physiology, climate control, nutrient management, and pest and disease control specific to protected cropping. You will be responsible for day-to-day operations, crop planning, yield forecasting, and implementing innovative techniques to enhance quality and efficiency. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the cutting edge of agricultural technology, contributing to sustainable food production solutions. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about horticulture, detail-oriented, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively. Your expertise will be key in ensuring the consistent delivery of premium produce, meeting stringent market demands. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying and resolving cultivation challenges, ensuring optimal growing conditions are maintained year-round. This is an excellent opportunity for a growth-oriented professional to make a significant impact in Centurion, Gauteng horticultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of protected cropping facilities, including environmental controls (temperature, humidity, CO2, light).
• Develop and execute crop-specific cultivation plans, including seeding, transplanting, and harvesting schedules.
• Monitor plant health, nutrient levels, and water requirements, adjusting inputs as necessary.
• Implement integrated pest and disease management (IPM/IDM) strategies within a controlled environment.
• Optimize resource utilization, including water, energy, and nutrients, for sustainable production.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, growing media, and cultivation techniques suitable for Centurion, Gauteng.
• Analyze production data to identify areas for improvement and increase yield and quality.
• Supervise and train junior horticultural staff and technicians.
• Maintain accurate records of all cultivation activities, inputs, and outcomes.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in commercial protected cropping (e.g., greenhouses, vertical farms).
• Strong knowledge of hydroponics, aeroponics, or other soilless cultivation systems.
• Expertise in environmental control systems and fertigation management.
• Familiarity with IPM/IDM principles in protected environments.
• Proven ability to analyze data and make informed operational decisions.
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead a small team.
• Understanding of agricultural practices and regulations in the Centurion, Gauteng region.
• Flexibility to work outside standard hours during critical growing periods.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance‑based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions are provided.
• This role includes opportunities for professional development, such as attending horticultural conferences and specialized training programs.
• You will have access to cutting‑edge technology and facilities in a dynamic and innovative work environment.
• The company fosters a culture of growth and sustainability, offering a stable career path with potential for advancement within the organization.
• We value our employees and provide a supportive atmosphere conducive to professional and personal development.