Horticulturist - Research & Development

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 279,000 - 446,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Modern research facilities

Professional development

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, is seeking an innovative Horticulturist to join its Research & Development team. You will develop new plant varieties, improve cultivation techniques, and enhance crop quality across horticultural products.

You will design experiments, analyze results, and contribute to advancing horticultural science, working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment that supports professional growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in horticulture or related field.
• 2–4 years in horticultural research or plant science.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, and propagation.
• Experience with experimental design and data analysis.
• Familiarity with greenhouse or controlled environment agriculture is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments related to plant breeding, propagation, and cultivation.
• Evaluate new plant varieties for desirable traits such as yield, disease resistance, and market appeal.
• Optimize growing conditions, including light, temperature, water, and nutrient management.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from R&D trials.
• Prepare detailed reports on experimental findings and provide recommendations for commercial application.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing and production, to ensure product success.

Skills

Plant breeding

Propagation

Data analysis

Experiment design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and skilled Horticulturist to join their Research & Development team in Benoni . This role focuses on developing new plant varieties, improving cultivation techniques, and enhancing crop quality for a variety of horticultural products. You will conduct experiments, analyze results, and contribute to the advancement of horticultural science within the organization. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate horticulturist to work in a progressive environment, contribute to product innovation, and make a tangible impact on the agricultural landscape in Gauteng and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments related to plant breeding, propagation, and cultivation.
• Evaluate new plant varieties for desirable traits such as yield, disease resistance, and market appeal.
• Optimize growing conditions, including light, temperature, water, and nutrient management.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data from R&D trials.
• Prepare detailed reports on experimental findings and provide recommendations for commercial application.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing and production, to ensure product success.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Botany, or a related field.
• 2-4 years of experience in horticultural research, crop development, or plant science.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, genetics, and propagation techniques.
• Experience with experimental design and data analysis.
• Familiarity with greenhouse or controlled environment agriculture is a plus.
• Excellent observational skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Access to modern research facilities and equipment.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Contribution to the development of new and improved horticultural products.