CROPS AND MACHINERY MANAGER

SUMMARY:
Cradock Area, Eastern Cape Province – South Africa: This large commercial mixed farming enterprise is seeking a Crops and Machinery Manager to join the team.

POSITION INFO:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in commercial crop farming and machinery management. Solid, practical competence in a farm workshop environment, including proficient welding (arc/gas/CO2), safe operation of angle grinders and small power tools, general fabrication, building, and structural repairs. A proactive, self-reliant approach to troubleshooting and fixing mechanical, structural, and operational issues on farm first before resorting to outside third-party contractors. Hands-on experience servicing diesel engines, John Deere tractors, combine harvesters, and implements. Basic practical knowledge of rural electrical systems for minor troubleshooting. Competent and experienced in operating heavy machinery, specifically driving combine harvesters and TLBs. Reasonable technical aptitude to use smartphones and agricultural apps, digital task lists, and record-keeping tools. Must be systematic and organized-capable of maintaining structured records and logs digitally or in writing. Growing up on a commercial farm is advantageous. Comfortable living in a rural farming community and engaging respectfully with local association structures. Valid South African driver's license RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO Manage the full production cycle-from soil management & preparation, planting, irrigation scheduling, chemical/fertilizer application, and crop monitoring to harvesting and post-harvest storage-for maize, lucerne, teff, oats, etc. Manage the end-to-end ordering process for all crop inputs (seed, fertilizers, chemicals, etc.). Source quotes, coordinate with agricultural suppliers, manage delivery schedules, and oversee input stock control in alignment with the crop programs. Oversee pasture management and crop rotations in direct consultation with the Livestock Manager, ensuring seamless integration between crop and livestock enterprises. Direct the maintenance, servicing, and operation of all farm vehicles, John Deere tractors, trailers, and implements. Personally operate heavy machinery, including driving the combine harvester during harvest periods. Manage the farm workshop, ensuring all small tools, equipment, and general infrastructure are maintained, organized, and in safe working order. Oversee water distribution, irrigation scheduling, pump checks, and routine upkeep of water delivery systems across the 300+ hectare irrigation footprint. Supervise, schedule, and delegate tasks to the ~6 permanent farm employees in the crops team and manage additional temporary staff as required. Implement practical operational systems, daily checklists, and safety protocols. Assist with input budgeting, financial planning, and operational cost control. Manage crop delivery logistics (all local) & coordination with agricultural clients Handle basic on-farm electrical troubleshooting and minor electrical repairs (e.g., pumps, fencing, lighting, or housing electrics) alongside general maintenance. ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted