Horticulturalist - Subtropical Crops

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Performance incentives

Medical and retirement benefits

Generous annual leave and sick leave

Accommodation assistance nearby

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Horticulturalist to lead the cultivation of subtropical crops in a hybrid role combining field work and planning. The position emphasizes implementing advanced horticultural techniques, irrigation and fertilization programs, pest and disease control, and collaboration with R&D to drive yield and quality.

Candidates should have a horticulture degree and at least five years of subtropical fruit experience; strong data skills and leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Agriculture, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of practical horticulture experience, with a focus on subtropical fruits.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation systems relevant to the KwaZulu-Natal climate.
• Experience with commercial farm operations and managing field teams.
• Proficiency in data collection and analysis for horticultural decision-making.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively work with farm staff and management.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willingness to undertake both field duties and office-based planning and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and manage all horticultural activities for subtropical crops, including planting, pruning, trellising, and harvesting.
• Monitor crop health and development, identifying and addressing issues related to pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Develop and maintain detailed irrigation and fertilization schedules based on crop needs and environmental conditions.
• Supervise field staff, providing guidance and training on horticultural best practices and safety procedures.
• Conduct research on new cultivation techniques, crop varieties, and pest management strategies to improve efficiency and yield.
• Maintain accurate records of horticultural activities, input usage, yield data, and operational costs.
• Collaborate with the research and development team on experimental trials and data collection.
• Ensure adherence to all quality standards, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage nursery operations, including propagation, seedling care, and acclimatization.

Skills

Plant physiology

Soil science

Pest management

Irrigation systems

Data analysis

Team supervision

Communication

Fieldwork

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture

Job description

Showing 1 Horticulturalist Subtropical Crops jobs in Richards Bay

Horticulturalist - Subtropical Crops

3900 Placements24

Posted today

Job Description

full-time

About the Role

Our client, a renowned producer of high-value subtropical fruits, is seeking a skilled and passionate Horticulturalist to join their operations near Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This hybrid role requires a hands-on expert in the cultivation and management of specialized crops, ensuring optimal growth, yield, and quality. You will be responsible for implementing advanced horticultural techniques, managing irrigation and fertilization programs, and overseeing pest and disease control strategies. The position involves both field work and strategic planning, contributing significantly to the success of the Agriculture & Forestry business unit. If you have a deep understanding of subtropical fruit cultivation and a commitment to sustainable farming practices, this is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a key agricultural hub of South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, implement, and manage all horticultural activities for subtropical crops, including planting, pruning, trellising, and harvesting.
• Monitor crop health and development, identifying and addressing issues related to pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Develop and maintain detailed irrigation and fertilization schedules based on crop needs and environmental conditions.
• Supervise field staff, providing guidance and training on horticultural best practices and safety procedures.
• Conduct research on new cultivation techniques, crop varieties, and pest management strategies to improve efficiency and yield.
• Maintain accurate records of horticultural activities, input usage, yield data, and operational costs.
• Collaborate with the research and development team on experimental trials and data collection.
• Ensure adherence to all quality standards, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory requirements.
• Manage nursery operations, including propagation, seedling care, and acclimatization.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Crop Science, Agriculture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of practical experience in horticulture, with a focus on subtropical fruits (e.g., mangoes, avocados, citrus, macadamias).
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest and disease management, and irrigation systems relevant to the KwaZulu-Natal climate.
• Experience with commercial farm operations and managing field teams.
• Proficiency in data collection and analysis for horticultural decision-making.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively work with farm staff and management.
• Valid driver's license.
• Willingness to undertake both field duties and office-based planning and reporting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance incentives and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave.
• Opportunity to work with leading-edge horticultural practices.
• Exposure to international markets for subtropical produce.
• On-site or nearby accommodation assistance may be discussed.