Senior Horticulture & Crop Specialist — Hybrid & Innovative

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Horticulturalist / Crop Specialist near Sandton to lead crop cultivation, optimize growth, quality and yield. You will implement advanced horticultural techniques, manage pest/disease control, and refine irrigation and nutrition programs, with a focus on sustainable practices.

The role requires 4–6 years in commercial horticulture, strong soil science knowledge, and a collaborative mindset to work with research teams and farm staff in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant Science, or related field.
• 4-6 years of practical experience in commercial horticulture or crop management.
• Proven expertise in crop cultivation, pest and disease management, and integrated crop management (ICM).
• Strong knowledge of soil science, plant nutrition, and irrigation techniques.
• Experience with data collection and analysis related to crop performance.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement crop management plans for a variety of high-value crops.
• Supervise planting, cultivation, and harvesting to ensure quality and yield.
• Monitor crop health, diagnose diseases and pests, and apply control measures.
• Design and manage irrigation systems for efficient water use.
• Develop fertilization programs to optimize nutrition and soil health.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate varieties and cultivation techniques.
• Maintain detailed records of crop performance and environmental conditions.
• Collaborate with research teams on innovative horticultural practices.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and environmental regulations.
• Provide training to farm staff on best practices.
• Stay updated on advancements in horticulture and crop science.

Skills

Data collection & analysis

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Horticultural software

Education

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

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Horticulturalist / Crop Specialist near Sandton to lead crop cultivation, optimize growth, quality and yield. You will implement advanced horticultural techniques, manage pest/disease control, and refine irrigation and nutrition programs, with a focus on sustainable practices.

The role requires 4–6 years in commercial horticulture, strong soil science knowledge, and a collaborative mindset to work with research teams and farm staff in Gauteng.