Senior Grower; Berries

Our client is looking to hire an experienced, self-motivated and target driven Grower for their berry-farm in George, Western Cape. The Grower will report to the Farm Business Manager.

Job Summary: We are seeking a candidate with at least 5 years of hands-on experience in soft fruit or table grape production. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in crop management, including irrigation, husbandry, and the implementation of growing programmes. A relevant qualification such as a BSc in Plant Production, Horticulture, or Agronomy is preferred. Please note, we are not looking for a production supervisor or manager, but a dedicated grower with solid production experience.

The purpose of the Role:

To produce high quality fruit by determining the best growth strategy per crop type per field at the best possible productivity levels. To strive for and work towards perfection.

Responsibilities:

• Fertigation and irrigation as per crop/field requirements
• Plan, action, orientate and monitor labour to carry out tasks within set deadlines to maintain high levels of production and quality
• Procurement of all material and equipment within set deadlines to ensure uninterrupted services
• Establish and action maintenance plan of all equipment to ensure uninterrupted services
• Plan, coordinate, monitor and adjust husbandry strategy per crop per field as indicated by plant growth
• Determine applicable cropping system per day, per crop
• Tunnel ops and maintenance according to strategic plan established per crop per field to ensure climate control
• Action tunnel management activities according to climatic changes (venting/deventing)
• Monitor fields and develop appropriate spray programme to minimize pest infestations
• Procure services within relevant department to meet specific deadlines and outcomes
• Implementation of biological pest and disease control measures
• Develop, implement and monitor effective pollination strategy per field per crop, ensure safety standards are adhered to
• Develop, implement and monitor effective field maintenance programme per field per crop resulting in neat blocks

Requirements

• Tertiary: agricultural/horticultural management diploma/Degree
• Minimum of 5-7 years growing berries/soft fruit/tables grapes/production experience
• Good literacy, numeracy, computer skills, excellent report writing skills
• Driving licence with own transport

Benefits

Salary offered: R40 000-R50 000 per month, before deductions.

Housing:
No housing will be provided.