Senior Grower (Berries)

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

Job summary

A leading agricultural company is seeking an experienced Grower for their berry farm in George, Western Cape. The ideal candidate will have at least 5-7 years of hands-on experience in soft fruit or table grape production, alongside strong technical expertise in crop management and related agricultural practices. This role focuses on producing high-quality fruit through effective growth strategies and hands-on management of farming operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years of growing berries/soft fruit/table grapes experience.
• Relevant qualifications preferred: BSc or diploma in agriculture/horticulture.
• Driving license with own transport.

Responsibilities

• Manage fertigation and irrigation as per crop requirements.
• Plan and monitor labor to maintain production quality.
• Develop and implement pest control measures.

Skills

Crop Management

Irrigation

Husbandry

Pest Control

Field Monitoring

Education

BSc in Plant Production, Horticulture or Agronomy

Agricultural / Horticultural Management Diploma

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.