Senior Horticulturalist - Citrus Cultivation

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

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural enterprise based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Senior Horticulturalist with a specialization in citrus cultivation. This is a pivotal role within our operations, focusing on optimizing yield, quality, and sustainability across our extensive citrus groves. The successful candidate will leverage advanced horticultural techniques and data-driven insights to manage all aspects of citrus crop production. This role requires a blend of scientific knowledge, practical field experience, and strong leadership skills. You will be instrumental in driving innovation and maintaining the highest standards of agricultural practice. We are looking for an individual passionate about plant science and committed to achieving excellence in a challenging and rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive cultivation strategies for various citrus varieties, focusing on maximizing yield and fruit quality.
• Oversee daily operations of the citrus groves, including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, and pruning.
• Conduct regular soil and plant tissue analysis to monitor crop health and nutrient status, adjusting management practices accordingly.
• Manage and mentor a team of farm workers and junior horticulturalists, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to best practices.
• Research and introduce new cultivation techniques, technologies, and crop protection methods to improve efficiency and sustainability.
• Monitor weather patterns and environmental conditions, implementing proactive measures to mitigate risks such as frost or drought.
• Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, including planting dates, treatments, yields, and costs.
• Collaborate with the research and development team to evaluate new citrus rootstocks and scion varieties.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and environmental standards.
• Contribute to the development of the company's long-term agricultural strategy.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related agricultural field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in horticulture, with at least 4 years specifically focused on citrus cultivation.
• Proven expertise in citrus pest and disease identification and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Strong understanding of soil science, plant physiology, and nutrient management for citrus.
• Experience with irrigation systems (drip, overhead) and fertigation techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis and using agricultural software for record-keeping and decision-making.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide a diverse workforce.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing challenges.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the operational areas around Pietermaritzburg.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to a generous base salary, employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development and further training. We provide a supportive work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates. This role offers the chance to work with cutting-edge agricultural technologies and make a significant impact on the future of citrus farming in the region.