Senior Horticulturalist - Protected Cultivation Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Professional development

Housing assistance/allowance

Access to modern horticultural tech

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Horticulturalist specializing in Protected Cultivation near Polokwane, Limpopo. This leadership role manages greenhouse operations, climate control, irrigation, IPM, and crop programs to deliver high-quality yields.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in commercial horticulture, with protected cultivation expertise, strong plant physiology knowledge, and data-logging skills. English proficiency, flexible hours, and collaboration with research partners are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field
• 6+ years of progressive experience in commercial horticulture, with at least 3 years in protected cultivation
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and nutrient management in controlled environments
• Experience with environmental control systems, irrigation technologies, and IPM/IDM in greenhouses
• Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills
• Proficiency in using farm management software and data logging systems; excellent English communication

Responsibilities

• Manage cultivation in advanced greenhouse facilities and develop crop-specific growing programs
• Monitor environmental parameters (temp, humidity, CO2, light) for optimal growth
• Implement IPM/IDM strategies tailored for protected cultivation
• Oversee propagation, transplanting, and harvesting to maximize yield
• Maintain detailed crop and condition records; conduct trials on new varieties
• Supervise greenhouse staff and ensure safety and best practices
• Collaborate with research institutions and tech providers on innovative solutions
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and food safety standards in Polokwane

Skills

Plant physiology

Crop production

Leadership

Analytical skills

English communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Horticulture/Agronomy/Plant Science

Tools

Farm management software

Data logging systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading producer of high-value horticultural crops, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Horticulturalist specializing in Protected Cultivation to join their operations near Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is crucial for managing and optimizing greenhouse operations, ensuring the highest quality yields of fruits, vegetables, or ornamental plants. The Senior Horticulturalist will oversee all aspects of controlled environment agriculture, including climate control, irrigation, nutrient management, pest and disease control within greenhouses, and crop specific cultivation techniques. The ideal candidate possesses extensive practical experience in greenhouse management and a deep understanding of plant physiology in protected environments. This is a vital role for advancing modern horticultural practices in the fertile Polokwane, Limpopo region.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and optimize the cultivation of crops within advanced greenhouse facilities. Develop and implement crop-specific growing programs, including nutrient and irrigation strategies. Monitor and control greenhouse environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, CO2, light) to ensure optimal plant growth and quality. Implement and manage integrated pest and disease management (IPM/IDM) strategies tailored for protected cultivation. Oversee propagation, transplanting, and harvesting processes to maximize yield and quality. Maintain detailed records of crop performance, environmental conditions, and inputs. Conduct trials on new crop varieties, growing media, and cultivation techniques. Supervise and train greenhouse staff, ensuring adherence to best practices and safety protocols. Collaborate with research institutions and technology providers to adopt innovative horticultural solutions. Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and food safety standards in Polokwane, Limpopo .

Requirements

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or a related field. Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in commercial horticulture, with at least 3 years specifically in protected cultivation (greenhouse, hydroponics, or vertical farming). In-depth knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and nutrient management in controlled environments. Proven experience with environmental control systems, irrigation technologies, and IPM/IDM in greenhouses. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to crop production challenges. Excellent organizational and time management abilities. Strong leadership and team management skills. Proficiency in using farm management software and data logging systems. Excellent communication and reporting skills in English. Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends, as required by crop cycles near Polokwane, Limpopo .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses and comprehensive medical aid.
• Opportunities for professional development include attending specialized horticultural workshops, industry expos, and potential for further education.
• The company provides a supportive team environment and access to modern horticultural technology.
• Housing assistance or a housing allowance may be provided for relocating candidates to the Polokwane, Limpopo area.
• Join a growing enterprise committed to excellence in horticulture.