Strawberry Field Foreman

Status Staffing; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Status Staffing is looking for a Strawberry Field Foreman in Stellenbosch, South Africa, to oversee daily harvesting operations and ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards. This role requires strong leadership skills and a minimum of 2 years of experience in agricultural operations.

You will manage a team, train workers, and maintain accurate records while aiming to achieve production targets efficiently. Previous experience in supervisory roles is preferred, making this an excellent opportunity for motivated candidates.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in strawberry farming or agricultural operations.
• Experience working with food safety systems and agricultural audits.
• Good record-keeping and administrative abilities.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily strawberry harvesting activities.
• Ensure compliance with quality and picking standards.
• Train workers on harvesting techniques and picking procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Matric certificate (Grade 12)

Agricultural or supervisory training

Job description

Employment Details

Employment type: Permanent
Sector: Agricultural
Basic salary: Market related
Start date: ASAP

A recent professional profile photo is to accompany your application.

Requirements

• Matric certificate (Grade 12).
• Agricultural or supervisory training will be advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in strawberry farming, fruit production, or agricultural operations.
• Previous supervisory or foreman experience preferred.
• Experience working with food safety systems and agricultural audits.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage teams and maintain discipline.
• Good understanding of strawberry harvesting standards and productivity requirements.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and health and safety practices.
• Good record‑keeping and administrative abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills.

Duties

Key Performance Areas

• The performance of the Strawberry Field Foreman will be measured against:
• Achievement of production and harvesting targets.
• Compliance with quality and picking standards.
• Picker productivity and labour efficiency.
• Food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Health and safety compliance.
• Successful accreditation and audit outcomes.
• Accuracy of register books and operational records.
• Effective management of labour and discipline.
• Reduction of fruit wastage and harvesting losses.

Production Management

• Supervise and coordinate daily strawberry harvesting activities.
• Ensure harvesting operations are carried out efficiently and according to production plans.
• Monitor crop conditions and report any concerns affecting production or quality.
• Ensure daily, weekly, and seasonal production targets are achieved.
• Minimise fruit losses, wastage, and damage during harvesting and handling.

Quality Control and Picking Standards

• Ensure all strawberries are harvested according to company quality standards and customer specifications.
• Train workers on correct harvesting techniques and picking procedures.
• Monitor picker performance and productivity throughout the working day.
• Conduct regular quality inspections of harvested fruit.
• Ensure only marketable fruit is harvested and packed according to company standards.
• Implement corrective measures where quality standards are not met.

Team Leadership and Labour Management

• Supervise, lead, and motivate harvesting teams to achieve operational goals.
• Allocate labour efficiently according to daily operational requirements.
• Ensure workers understand and comply with company policies and procedures.
• Promote teamwork, productivity, and a positive work environment.
• Identify training needs and provide on‑the‑job coaching where necessary.

Hygiene, Food Safety and Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with food safety and hygiene requirements.
• Monitor worker hygiene practices and adherence to food safety protocols.
• Ensure harvesting equipment, containers, facilities, and work areas remain clean and hygienic.
• Immediately report and address any food safety risks or non‑conformances.
• Assist in maintaining traceability and food safety records.

Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and company safety procedures.
• Conduct regular safety briefings and toolbox talks.
• Ensure workers wear and use the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Identify and report workplace hazards and unsafe practices.
• Investigate and report incidents, accidents, and near misses.
• Promote and maintain a safe working environment at all times.

Accreditation Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable accreditation and certification requirements, including:
• Global G.A.P.
• GRASP
• SIZA
• Customer‑specific standards and protocols
• Maintain all records required for audits and inspections.
• Assist management during internal and external audits.
• Ensure workers understand and comply with accreditation requirements.

Discipline and Performance Management

• Maintain discipline within the harvesting teams in accordance with company policies and labour legislation.
• Address misconduct, absenteeism, poor performance, and non‑compliance appropriately.
• Report disciplinary matters to management when required.
• Monitor attendance and timekeeping of all employees under supervision.

Record Keeping and Administration

• Accurately complete and maintain the team's Register Book on a daily basis.
• Record attendance, absenteeism, leave, overtime, and labour allocation.
• Maintain daily production and harvesting records.
• Complete quality, safety, and compliance documentation as required.
• Submit reports and records to management accurately and on time.

Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 07:30 – 16:30
• Fridays: 07:30 – 14:30