Junior Production Manager - Indigo

United Exports; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

United Exports is seeking a Junior Production Manager to join our farming operations. The role focuses on hands-on leadership, planning, and coordination of planting, fertigation, chemical application, and harvest activities across fruit crops.

You will support admin tasks, asset management, and compliance with GAP, SIZA, and internal quality standards while developing your leadership capabilities in a dynamic farming business.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Senior Certificate is essential.
• Diploma or degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field preferred.
• Certifications in farming practices such as irrigation or crop scouting are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise planting, fertigation, chemical application, and harvest activities.
• Support farming planning, coordination, and administration to meet targets.
• Lead production teams; monitor attendance, performance and productivity.
• Coach and mentor staff; ensure health and safety compliance.
• Maintain records, asset management, and equipment inspections.

Skills

Leadership

Planning & Organisation

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Detail-oriented

Education

Grade 12 / Senior Certificate

Diploma or Degree in Agriculture/Horticulture

Farming certifications (Irrigation, Crop scouting)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and driven Junior Production Manager to join our production team. This role is ideal for an individual with hands-on farming experience who is eager to develop their leadership capabilities while contributing to the successful production of high-quality fruit crops.

The successful candidate will support the planning, coordination, supervision, and administration of key farming activities, ensuring efficient operations and compliance with industry standards.

Key Performance Outputs

Production Management

• Planting
• Fertigation
• Chemical application
• Harvesting
• Pruning
• Pest and disease management
• Monitor production methods and ensure adherence to operational standards.
• Conduct soil and leaf analyses to support fertigation and crop management programmes.
• Inspect production areas and monitor crop maturity against production targets.
• Ensure production areas are maintained to the highest standards.

Business & Operational Planning

• Assist in implementing the farm's strategic and operational plans.
• Develop and coordinate section-specific goals and activities.
• Support efficient resource utilisation to achieve production objectives.

People Management

• Schedule and coordinate daily activities for senior team leaders and production teams.
• Assist with employee induction and integration.
• Monitor attendance, performance, and productivity.
• Coach, mentor, and motivate employees to achieve operational goals.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Support employee development and skills enhancement initiatives.

Administration

• Maintain accurate production and operational records.
• Ensure documentation is completed, organised, and filed appropriately.
• Asset & Equipment Management
• Conduct regular inspections of farm equipment and machinery.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and operated safely.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Maintain compliance with industry standards and certifications, including:Global G.A.P, SIZA, Internal Quality Standards
• Ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and best practices

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Senior Certificate (essential).
• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field (preferred).
• Additional certifications in farming practices such as: Irrigation, Crop scouting, Plant production, Other relevant agricultural disciplines

Experience

• 2-4 years' relevant farm management experience in a commercial farming environment.
• Practical experience across crop production activities from land preparation through to harvesting.
• Experience with fruit or berry production and harvesting practices is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Sound knowledge of horticultural and fruit production practices.
• Understanding of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).
• Basic financial management knowledge.
• Knowledge of relevant labour legislation and workplace regulations.
• Computer literacy, including: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong leadership and supervisory ability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Effective problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and results.

Why Join Us?

At our farm, you'll become part of a passionate team dedicated to producing premium-quality fruit while embracing innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement. We believe our people are the foundation of our success and are committed to creating an environment where employees can grow, develop, and make a meaningful impact.

If you are passionate about agriculture, enjoy working with people, and are looking for an opportunity to grow your career in a progressive farming business, we'd love to hear from you.