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HORTICULTURIST

HORTICULTURIST

Farm Manager SAWhite river, South Africa
30+ days ago
Job description

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

  • Degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or related discipline.
  • Experience working with tree crops, preferably macadamia and / or avocado.
  • Strong knowledge of plant pathology, entomology, and integrated protection practices.
  • Competence in data systems, GPS mapping, and trial protocol execution.
  • Excellent communication, planning, and problem-solving skills.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO

Plant Health & Protection

  • Monitor, diagnose, and manage pests, diseases, and physiological disorders affecting macadamia and avocado trees.
  • Develop and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies tailored to orchard conditions.
  • Coordinate plant health monitoring programs, including field scouting, diagnostics, and data interpretation.

    • Tree Breeding & Field Trials

  • Support and manage macadamia and avocado breeding trials, tracking key performance indicators and traits.
  • Design and execute field trials for new cultivars, rootstocks, crop protection methods, and nutritional programs.
  • Collaborate with internal R&D and external partners on trial protocols, data collection, and reporting.

    • Post-Harvest Fruit Quality

  • Monitor and evaluate the impact of orchard practices on nut and fruit quality, including kernel recovery, oil content, bruising, and shelf life.
  • Provide technical support to harvest and post-harvest teams to reduce defect rates and optimize handling procedures.
  • Establish feedback loops between the field and processing operations to improve outcomes.

    • JOB DESCRIPTION

    Operational Procurement & Inputs

  • Assist with planning and sourcing of horticultural inputs, including crop protection chemicals, fertilizers, and biologicals.
  • Maintain accurate input inventories and usage records in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Liaise with vendors and Agri suppliers to ensure timely delivery and quality control of products.

    • Risk & Compliance

  • Identify and mitigate risks related to plant biosecurity, agrochemical use, and environmental impact.
  • Ensure compliance with local and international food safety, residue, and environmental standards.
  • Keep up to date with regulations and best practices affecting macadamia and avocado production.

    • Reporting, Communication & Team Support

  • Maintain comprehensive records of plant protection programs, trial data, and quality monitoring.
  • Provide regular updates and recommendations to operational managers and stakeholders.
  • Deliver training and field guidance to farm teams to support best practices in protection, sanitation, and harvest hygiene.

    • ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted

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    Horticulturist • White river, South Africa