Blending Plant Manager, Durban
Our client is seeking a Blender Plant Manager to oversee daily plant operations within the agricultural industry to join our established radiology practice in Durban. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and results-driven professional with strong production management, technical, and leadership skills to ensure efficient blending operations, maintain product quality, and uphold health and safety standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing production processes, optimising operational efficiency, overseeing stock and raw material management, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This role offers an opportunity to lead a dedicated team, contribute to operational excellence, and support the company's continued growth within the agricultural sector.
Minimum requirements
Grade 12 / National Senior Certificate
A relevant qualification in Production Management, Operations Management, Engineering, Agriculture, Chemical Processing or a related field would be advantageous
A minimum of 5 years' relevant experience within a fertiliser blending or closely related fertiliser production environment
Practical fertiliser blending experience is non-negotiable
Previous experience managing or supervising a production or blending plant
Demonstrated experience managing production employees and operational teams
Strong understanding of fertiliser blending processes, raw materials and production procedures
Experience with production planning, stock control and plant maintenance coordination
Working knowledge of occupational health and safety requirements within an industrial or production environment
Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and relevant production/ERP systems
Skills required
Strong practical knowledge of fertiliser blending and production
Hands-on operational management ability
Strong leadership and people-management skills
Production planning and organisational ability
Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
Strong attention to quality and detail
Safety awareness and a disciplined approach to plant operations
Ability to work under pressure and respond effectively to production challenges
Good numerical and analytical ability
Cost and waste awareness
Strong communication skills
Accountability and a high level of ownership
Ability to coordinate effectively across production, warehouse, logistics, procurement and management teams
Continuous improvement mindset
Duties and responsibilities
Manage daily fertiliser blending plant operations and production schedule
Ensure production targets, deadlines, and efficiency standards are achieved
Monitor output, minimise downtime and wastage, and maintain accurate production records
Ensure effective utilisation of plant equipment, labour, and raw materials
Oversee accurate weighing, dosing, and blending of fertiliser raw materials according to approved formulations and specifications
Maintain product quality, consistency, and batch traceability
Investigate quality issues and implement corrective actions
Monitor raw material availability and coordinate stock requirements with procurement, logistics, and warehouse teams
Oversee the receipt, storage, handling, and movement of raw materials and finished products
Conduct stock counts, investigate discrepancies, and minimise losses
Monitor equipment performance and coordinate routine and preventative maintenance
Identify equipment faults and minimise unplanned downtime
Ensure machinery is operated safely and maintained appropriately
Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements
Enforce PPE requirements, safe handling procedures, and housekeeping standards
Conduct safety inspections and risk assessments, and address hazards promptly
Supervise plant employees, allocate duties, and monitor performance and productivity
Ensure staff receive appropriate operational and safety training
Promote teamwork, accountability, and effective communication
Identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, and product quality
Monitor production costs, wastage, and resource utilisation
Implement process improvements to optimise plant performance
Maintain accurate production, stock, maintenance, and safety records
Prepare operational reports covering production output, downtime, quality, and plant performance
Report operational challenges to management and assist with budgeting and production planning
Remuneration
Negotiable, depending on experience
IMPORTANT:
Applications close 23 October 2026
If you did not receive feedback within 14 days, please consider your application unsuccessful
Only applications submitted via the Ditto Jobs platform will be considered
Only candidates who meet all our client's minimum requirements will be contacted