Senior Grower (Berries)

ARVO; George; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A farming business in George, Western Cape, is seeking an experienced Grower to produce high-quality fruit through effective crop management strategies. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree and at least 5-7 years’ experience in berry or soft fruit production. Responsibilities include irrigation, pest control, and monitoring field maintenance to ensure optimal production levels.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of growing berries, soft fruit, or table grapes.
• Tertiary qualification in agricultural or horticultural management.
• Own transport with a valid driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Manage fertigation and irrigation as per crop requirements.
• Monitor and coordinate labour for production tasks.
• Implement pest and disease control measures.

Skills

Crop management

Irrigation

Husbandry

Pest control

Education

Degree in Plant Production, Horticulture, or Agronomy

Job description

Our client is looking to hire an experienced, self-motivated and target driven Grower for their berry-farm in George, Western Cape. The Grower will report to the Farm Business Manager.

Job Summary : We are seeking a candidate with at least 5 years of hands-on experience in soft fruit or table grape production. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in crop management, including irrigation, husbandry, and the implementation of growing programmes. A relevant qualification such as a BSc in Plant Production, Horticulture, or Agronomy is preferred. Please note, we are not looking for a production supervisor or manager, but a dedicated grower with solid production experience.

The purpose of the Role :

To produce high quality fruit by determining the best growth strategy per crop type per field at the best possible productivity levels. To strive for and work towards perfection.

Responsibilities :

• Fertigation and irrigation as per crop / field requirements
• Plan, action, orientate and monitor labour to carry out tasks within set deadlines to maintain high levels of production and quality
• Procurement of all material and equipment within set deadlines to ensure uninterrupted services
• Establish and action maintenance plan of all equipment to ensure uninterrupted services
• Plan, coordinate, monitor and adjust husbandry strategy per crop per field as indicated by plant growth
• Tunnel ops and maintenance according to strategic plan established per crop per field to ensure climate control
• Action tunnel management activities according to climatic changes (venting / deventing)
• Monitor fields and develop appropriate spray programme to minimize pest infestations
• Procure services within relevant department to meet specific deadlines and outcomes
• Implementation of biological pest and disease control measures
• Develop, implement and monitor effective pollination strategy per field per crop, ensure safety standards are adhered to
• Develop, implement and monitor effective field maintenance programme per field per crop resulting in neat blocks

Requirements

• Tertiary : agricultural / horticultural management diploma / Degree
• Minimum of 5-7 years growing berries / soft fruit / tables grapes / production experience
• Driving licence with own transport

Salary offered : R40 000-R50 000 per month, before deductions.