Farm / Greenhouse Manager

SUMMARY:

Our client, a working farm approximately 30 km outside Elands Bay on the West Coast, is looking for an experienced Farm / Greenhouse Manager to take full ownership of production and operations. This is a hands-on, live-on-farm role suited to an individual or couple, with significant room to grow as the operation expands.

Key Respon...

POSITION INFO:
Our client, a working farm approximately 30 km outside Elands Bay on the West Coast, is looking for an experienced Farm / Greenhouse Manager to take full ownership of production and operations. This is a hands-on, live-on-farm role suited to an individual or couple, with significant room to grow as the operation expands. Key Responsibilities Oversee hydroponic lettuce production across four tunnels using deep water culture (DWC): manage germination, seedling production, transplanting, crop establishment, nutrient solutions, water quality and pest and disease management. Manage approximately 15 000 Parisian Black fig trees: irrigation, fertiliser application, pruning, pest and disease control, and harvest planning. Plan and supervise harvesting, post-harvest handling, processing and packaging of lettuce and figs; maintain quality and hygiene standards throughout. Oversee the farm's water systems, irrigation, pumps and related operational infrastructure; identify maintenance requirements and resolve issues promptly. Lead and manage the agricultural team of eight staff, including two senior staff members; allocate daily tasks, supervise work, train and develop team members. Take ownership of overall farm production and operations; plan and organise daily, weekly and seasonal activities. Keep production and operational records; report regularly to the owner and monitor input and supply requirements. Contribute to planning for the expansion of the operation. Requirements Agricultural background with proven practical growing experience and demonstrated farming experience. Good management capabilities and experience leading a farm team. Ability to take ownership of overall production and operations; hands-on, dynamic, organised and comfortable with rural, on-farm living. Valid driver's licence. Preferred Experience in hydroponics, particularly deep water culture (DWC). Animal husbandry experience. Bilingual in English and Afrikaans. Benefits Remuneration: market-related, negotiable depending on experience. Three-bedroom house on the farm. Vehicle provided. Significant room for growth as the operation expands.