Hydroponics Farm Manager: Tech-Driven Sustainable Yields

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation allowance or on-site/hb‑

On-site housing

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development and training

Cutting-edge agricultural technology

Upington location experience

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Hydroponics Farm Manager for its Upington, Northern Cape facility. You will lead a small team, manage nutrient delivery, environmental controls, and crop health to ensure high-quality, sustainable produce.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovative agriculture. You will work in a state-of-the-art facility focused on efficiency and yield optimization.

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience managing hydroponic or controlled environment systems.
• Solid understanding of plant physiology, nutrient solutions, and NFT/DWC/drip hydroponic techniques.
• Experience with environmental control systems and sensors.
• Ability to operate farm machinery and equipment.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and attention to detail.
• Ability to lead and motivate a small team.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and best practices.
• Passion for innovative, sustainable agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily hydroponic farm operations: planting, cultivation, harvesting.
• Manage nutrient delivery, pH, and water quality for optimal growth.
• Monitor environmental factors: temperature, humidity, CO2, lighting.
• Apply IPM strategies to prevent pests and diseases.
• Ensure operation and maintenance of hydroponic systems and equipment.
• Plan crop scheduling and production to meet market demand.
• Lead, train, and supervise farm workers; enforce safety procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, growth, nutrient application, pests, harvests.
• Conduct regular crop inspections and address issues promptly.
• Contribute to R&D to improve techniques and yields.

Skills

Hydroponics systems

Plant physiology

Environmental control

Integrated Pest Management

Team leadership

Record-keeping

Safety standards

Education

Degree or Diploma in Horticulture/Agriculture

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Hydroponics Farm Manager for its Upington, Northern Cape facility. You will lead a small team, manage nutrient delivery, environmental controls, and crop health to ensure high-quality, sustainable produce.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong problem-solving skills, and a passion for innovative agriculture. You will work in a state-of-the-art facility focused on efficiency and yield optimization.