Senior Citrus Cultivation Lead — Data-Driven Grower

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Híbrido; ZAR 900.000 - 1.300.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks a Senior Horticulturalist specializing in citrus to drive yield, quality and sustainability across our groves. You will apply advanced horticultural techniques, oversee grove operations, and lead a team to deliver excellence.

The role requires a strong background in horticulture, IPM, irrigation and soil science, with 7+ years in the field and at least 4 years in citrus. Travel within the region and a valid driver's license are essential.

Formación

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field.
• 7+ years in horticulture with at least 4 years in citrus.
• Proven IPM expertise and pest/disease identification.
• Strong soil science, plant physiology, and nutrient management knowledge.
• Experience with irrigation systems (drip/overhead) and fertigation.
• Proficient in data analysis and using agricultural software for record-keeping.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
• Willingness to travel within Pietermaritzburg area and hold a valid driver's license.

Responsabilidades

• Develop cultivation strategies for citrus varieties to maximize yield and fruit quality.
• Oversee daily grove operations including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, and pruning.
• Conduct soil and tissue analyses and adjust management practices accordingly.
• Lead and mentor farm workers and horticultural staff.
• Research and adopt new cultivation techniques and crop protection methods.
• Monitor weather and implement measures to mitigate frost or drought risks.
• Maintain detailed records of planting, treatments, yields and costs.
• Collaborate with R&D to evaluate new citrus rootstocks and varieties.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and environmental standards.
• Contribute to the company’s long-term agricultural strategy.

Conocimientos

Citrus cultivation

Leadership

Data analysis

IPM (pest management)

Irrigation & fertigation

Soil science & nutrition

Team mentoring

Problem solving

Communication

Travel readiness

Educación

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field

Descripción del empleo

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg seeks a Senior Horticulturalist specializing in citrus to drive yield, quality and sustainability across our groves. You will apply advanced horticultural techniques, oversee grove operations, and lead a team to deliver excellence.

The role requires a strong background in horticulture, IPM, irrigation and soil science, with 7+ years in the field and at least 4 years in citrus. Travel within the region and a valid driver's license are essential.