Senior Horticulturalist

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging is seeking a Senior Horticulturalist to manage all aspects of plant cultivation, greenhouse operations, and crop optimization on-site in Gauteng. You will lead a team, refine crop plans, and ensure high yield and quality while adhering to safety and environmental standards.

The role requires a hands-on, data-driven professional with 5+ years of horticultural management experience, IPM expertise, and strong leadership.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in horticultural management, preferably in commercial crop production.
• Proven expertise in plant propagation, cultivation techniques, and crop physiology.
• Strong knowledge of pest and disease identification and IPM strategies.
• Experience with greenhouse management and controlled environment agriculture.
• Excellent leadership, supervision, and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and basic farm management software.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills with a diverse team.
• Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Oversee horticultural operations, including planting, cultivation, pruning, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement crop management plans to optimize yield, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Manage greenhouse environments, including climate control, irrigation, and nutrient delivery systems.
• Supervise and train horticultural staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.
• Monitor plant health and growth, identifying and addressing issues proactively.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, cultivation techniques, and pest management strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, treatments, yields, and operational costs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, food safety standards, and environmental guidelines.
• Manage inventory of horticultural supplies, including seeds, fertilizers, and pest control agents.
• Collaborate with the farm management team to align horticultural activities with overall business objectives.
• Implement and promote sustainable and environmentally friendly horticultural practices.

Skills

Leadership

IPM knowledge

Greenhouse management

Record-keeping

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading horticultural producer specializing in high-value crops, seeking an experienced Senior Horticulturalist to manage and enhance their operations in Vereeniging. This role is integral to overseeing all aspects of plant cultivation, greenhouse management, and crop optimization. As a key member of the farm management team, you will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality and yield. This position requires a deep scientific understanding of plant biology, cultivation techniques, and pest/disease management, applied in a practical, hands‑on manner. We are looking for a dedicated professional committed to excellence in horticulture and eager to contribute to the success of our agricultural endeavors in Gauteng region. This is an on‑site role requiring full commitment to the farm's operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all horticultural operations, including planting, cultivation, pruning, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement crop management plans to optimize yield, quality, and resource efficiency.
• Manage greenhouse environments, including climate control, irrigation, and nutrient delivery systems.
• Supervise and train horticultural staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols.
• Monitor plant health and growth, identifying and addressing issues proactively.
• Conduct research and trials on new crop varieties, cultivation techniques, and pest management strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of planting, treatments, yields, and operational costs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, food safety standards, and environmental guidelines.
• Manage inventory of horticultural supplies, including seeds, fertilizers, and pest control agents.
• Collaborate with the farm management team to align horticultural activities with overall business objectives.
• Implement and promote sustainable and environmentally friendly horticultural practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in horticultural management, preferably in commercial crop production.
• Proven expertise in plant propagation, cultivation techniques, and crop physiology.
• Strong knowledge of pest and disease identification and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Experience with greenhouse management and controlled environment agriculture is essential.
• Excellent leadership, supervision, and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficiency in record‑keeping and basic farm management software.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse team.
• Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship.
• A hands‑on approach and a passion for horticulture are required for this Vereeniging based position.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience. This on‑site role provides direct engagement with innovative horticultural practices. Opportunities for professional development and continued learning in the field of horticulture will be provided. You will join a respected agricultural company dedicated to producing high‑quality crops in Vereeniging. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path within a supportive team environment. Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund contributions are part of the attractive benefits package.