Senior Horticulturalist

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 820,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance incentives

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development

Plant collection access

Supportive team culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Horticulturalist to lead cultivation, care and development of diverse plants in Richards Bay. You will supervise gardeners and technicians, implement innovative cultivation methods, and uphold high plant-care standards in a vibrant coastal setting.

Ideal candidates hold a degree in horticulture with 8+ years in professional horticulture, including 3+ years in supervision, and strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest control, and irrigation

Qualifications

• A degree or equivalent qualification in Horticulture, Botany, or related plant science.
• 8+ years hands-on horticulture experience, with 3+ years in a supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest/disease control, and irrigation systems.
• Experience with a wide variety of ornamental and/or agricultural plants.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of plant cultivation, including propagation, planting, pruning, fertilization, and pest/disease management.
• Develop and implement horticultural strategies to achieve project goals, focusing on plant health and biodiversity.
• Supervise and mentor a team of horticultural staff, providing guidance and ensuring quality workmanship.
• Conduct regular inspections of plants and grounds, identifying and addressing any issues promptly.
• Manage horticultural supplies, equipment, and budgets efficiently.
• Research and introduce new plant species and cultivation techniques suitable for Richards Bay climate.
• Maintain detailed records of plant collections, treatments, and growth progress.

Skills

Leadership

Plant physiology

Soil science

Pest control

Irrigation

Team supervision

Education

Degree in Horticulture

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Horticulturalist to manage and enhance their horticultural operations in Richards Bay . This role involves leading the cultivation, care, and development of a diverse range of plants, ensuring optimal health, growth, and aesthetic appeal. You will be responsible for supervising a team of gardeners and horticultural technicians, implementing innovative cultivation techniques, and maintaining high standards of plant care. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to a prestigious horticultural project and shape its future growth in a vibrant coastal setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of plant cultivation, including propagation, planting, pruning, fertilization, and pest/disease management.
• Develop and implement horticultural strategies to achieve project goals, focusing on plant health and biodiversity.
• Supervise and mentor a team of horticultural staff, providing guidance and ensuring quality workmanship.
• Conduct regular inspections of plants and grounds, identifying and addressing any issues promptly.
• Manage horticultural supplies, equipment, and budgets efficiently.
• Research and introduce new plant species and cultivation techniques suitable for the local climate in Richards Bay .
• Maintain detailed records of plant collections, treatments, and growth progress.

Requirements

• A degree or equivalent qualification in Horticulture, Botany, or a related plant science field.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands‑on experience in professional horticulture, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, pest and disease control, and irrigation systems.
• Experience with a wide variety of ornamental and/or agricultural plants.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in using horticultural tools and equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions in Richards Bay .

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary and potential for performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and specialized training.
• Access to a diverse and impressive plant collection.
• A beautiful working environment and supportive team culture.