Horticulturist: Protected Cropping (Hybrid, Durban)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Professional growth

Hybrid work model

Access to cutting-edge technology in  

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist with specialization in protected cropping to join our Durban team. You will manage greenhouse and vertical farming operations, optimize environmental conditions, and ensure high-quality produce for premium markets.

The role requires 4+ years in protected cropping, strong knowledge of plant physiology, and experience with hydroponics or aeroponics, with responsibilities spanning data analysis, pest management, and staff supervision in a hybrid work

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or related field.
• At least 4 years hands-on experience in protected cropping systems (greenhouses, vertical farming).
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, hydroponics, aeroponics, or other soilless culture techniques.
• Familiarity with environmental control systems and automation in horticulture.
• Experience with pest and disease identification and management in controlled environments.
• Proficiency in data collection and analysis for crop monitoring and performance evaluation.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and team collaboration skills.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work model, balancing on-site duties with remote tasks.
• Passion for innovative and sustainable agricultural production.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations within protected cropping facilities, including greenhouses and vertical farms.
• Monitor and control environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and light intensity to optimize plant growth.
• Develop and implement integrated pest and disease management strategies suitable for controlled environments.
• Oversee nutrient management and irrigation systems, ensuring precise delivery to crops.
• Conduct regular crop inspections, assessing plant health, yield potential, and quality.
• Maintain accurate records of environmental conditions, crop performance, and operational inputs.
• Research and evaluate new crop varieties, growing media, and technologies for protected cultivation.
• Collaborate with the research and development team on experimental trials and product development.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and environmental regulations.
• Train and supervise junior horticultural staff and technicians.

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist with specialization in protected cropping to join our Durban team. You will manage greenhouse and vertical farming operations, optimize environmental conditions, and ensure high-quality produce for premium markets.

The role requires 4+ years in protected cropping, strong knowledge of plant physiology, and experience with hydroponics or aeroponics, with responsibilities spanning data analysis, pest management, and staff supervision in a hybrid work