Senior Horticulturalist - Organic Produce Specialist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking a Senior Horticulturalist with deep expertise in organic produce cultivation. You will manage organic growing operations, applying soil health, pest and disease control, and sustainable irrigation to raise high-quality fruits and vegetables.

The role combines hands-on field work with planning and analysis, includes staff training, and contributes to the farm's certification and strategic organic production plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum 7 years in horticulture with at least 5 years in organic farming.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of organic crop production from planning to harvest.
• Develop and implement organic pest and disease strategies using natural methods.
• Manage soil fertility with composting, cover crops, and organic amendments.
• Design efficient irrigation and water management for organic crops.
• Monitor crop growth and intervene to ensure optimal yield and quality.
• Ensure compliance with organic certification standards and regulations.
• Train horticultural staff on organic farming techniques.
• Record farm operations, inputs, yields, and organic compliance.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to align with market demand.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Observational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture/related field

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected leader in sustainable agriculture based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , is looking for a Senior Horticulturalist with specialized knowledge in organic produce cultivation. This role is designed for an individual passionate about organic farming methods and dedicated to growing high-quality fruits and vegetables using environmentally sound practices. You will be responsible for managing organic growing operations, implementing innovative organic techniques, and ensuring the health and productivity of diverse crops. This position requires a strong understanding of soil health, organic pest and disease control, and sustainable water management. The Senior Horticulturalist will also play a key role in training junior staff and contributing to the farm's strategic planning for organic production. The position involves a blend of hands-on work in the field and planning/analytical tasks, offering a chance to shape the future of organic farming in the region.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and manage all aspects of organic crop production, including planning, planting, cultivation, and harvesting. Develop and implement organic pest and disease management strategies using biological and natural methods. Manage soil fertility and health through composting, cover cropping, and organic amendments. Design and implement efficient irrigation and water management systems for organic crops. Monitor crop growth, identify issues, and implement timely interventions to ensure optimal yield and quality. Ensure compliance with all organic certification standards and regulations. Supervise and train horticultural staff on organic farming techniques and best practices. Conduct research on new organic crop varieties and cultivation methods suitable for the region. Maintain detailed records of farm operations, inputs, yields, and organic compliance. Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to ensure alignment with market demands for organic produce.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus. A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in horticulture, with at least 5 years specifically focused on organic farming. In-depth knowledge of organic certification standards (e.g., JAS, EU Organic, USDA Organic) and practical application. Proven experience with organic pest and disease control, soil management, and irrigation techniques. Strong understanding of the unique horticultural conditions in the Western Cape . Excellent observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail. Leadership and team management experience. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping. Valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with your expertise and contributions. Benefits include medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development and training in advanced organic farming techniques. This is a unique opportunity to lead organic operations for a respected agricultural entity in the beautiful Stellenbosch area.