Horticulturist - Specialized Crop Development

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement savings scheme

Professional development opportunities

Project-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Horticulturist near Klerksdorp, North West, to lead research and development of high-value crops. The role emphasizes advanced cultivation techniques, data-driven optimization, and field trials to boost yield and resilience.

You will manage greenhouse and controlled environments, collaborate with farm staff, and ensure compliance with agricultural standards while pursuing innovation in crop quality and performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant horticulture field.
• Minimum 4 years of horticultural research experience.
• Experience with growth systems (greenhouse, hydroponics) and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on new and existing horticultural crops to improve growth, yield, and quality.
• Develop and implement advanced cultivation techniques, including greenhouse management, hydroponics, or vertical farming systems.
• Oversee planting, propagation, fertilization, irrigation, and pest/disease management for specialized crops.
• Collect and analyze data on crop performance, environmental conditions, and experimental results.
• Manage horticultural research trials and document findings meticulously.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on horticultural practices to farm staff.
• Ensure compliance with relevant agricultural and environmental regulations in Klerksdorp.
• Source seeds, plant material, and necessary horticultural supplies.
• Contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient horticultural systems.
• Prepare reports and presentations on research findings and project outcomes.

Skills

Horticultural research

Data collection & analysis

Greenhouse management / CEA

Problem solving

Communication skills

Teamwork

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture/ Botany/ Plant Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural research and development farm located near Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking a skilled and innovative Horticulturist to focus on specialized crop development. This role will involve the research, cultivation, and optimization of high-value horticultural crops, potentially including exotic fruits, vegetables, or medicinal plants. The Horticulturist will play a key part in enhancing crop quality, yield, and resilience through advanced horticultural techniques. This position offers an excellent opportunity for a dedicated plant scientist to contribute to cutting-edge agricultural practices within the dynamic farming landscape of the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research on new and existing horticultural crops to improve growth, yield, and quality. Develop and implement advanced cultivation techniques, including greenhouse management, hydroponics, or vertical farming systems. Oversee planting, propagation, fertilization, irrigation, and pest/disease management for specialized crops. Collect and analyze data on crop performance, environmental conditions, and experimental results. Manage horticultural research trials and document findings meticulously. Provide technical expertise and guidance on horticultural practices to farm staff. Ensure compliance with relevant agricultural and environmental regulations in Klerksdorp . Source seeds, plant material, and necessary horticultural supplies. Contribute to the development of sustainable and efficient horticultural systems. Prepare reports and presentations on research findings and project outcomes.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Botany, Plant Science, or a related agricultural discipline. Minimum of 4 years of experience in horticultural research, crop development, or a related field. Proven experience with a variety of horticultural crops and cultivation methods. Knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management. Experience with data collection and analysis for agricultural research. Proficiency in greenhouse management and/or controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently. Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the North West province for field work.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract top talent, along with potential for project-based bonuses. Employees receive access to essential medical benefits and a retirement savings scheme. Opportunities for professional development include participation in horticultural workshops and relevant agricultural conferences. This role provides a chance to work with innovative horticultural technologies and contribute to the development of novel crops. You will be part of a forward-thinking agricultural team in Klerksdorp , contributing to advancements in the field.