Grower (Soft Fruit)

Grower (Soft Fruit) Our client is recruiting an experienced, self-motivated, and target-driven Grower to lead berry production across protected- and open-field environments. The role reports to the Farm Business Manager and owns fruit quality, yield, and productivity per crop, per field . Start date: 1 January 2026 (earlier start in December 2025 welcome) Type: Permanent. Full-time, on-site. Farm is based in George (no housing or housing benefit is included in the package for this position) Salary: Market-related and negotiable depending on the ideal candidate's experience and background. Role purpose Deliver consistently high-quality fruit by setting the right growth strategy for each crop and block, and executing it through disciplined husbandry, climate control, irrigation/fertigation, and team leadership. Key responsibilities Irrigation, Fertigation & Nutrition Set, monitor, and adjust irrigation and fertigation programs per crop/field (including EC/pH targets and distribution uniformity). Maintain dosing systems and lines; investigate anomalies promptly and document corrective actions. Crop Husbandry & Field Execution Translate growth-stage needs into clear weekly plans (training, pruning, tipping, sanitation, canopy management). Determine the daily cropping system per crop to meet quality and yield targets. Plan, brief, and supervise labour to meet deadlines, productivity, and quality standards. Protected-Cropping & Climate Run tunnel operations and upkeep; execute climate actions (venting/de-venting) according to crop and field strategy. Monitor microclimate and adjust to protect fruit quality and plant health. Crop Protection & IPM Scout fields; design and execute spray programs to minimise pest/disease pressure. Implement and evaluate biological control measures; refine programs based on monitoring data. Pollination & Field Maintenance Develop, implement, and track pollination strategies per field/crop while enforcing relevant safety standards. Drive neat, compliant blocks via structured maintenance programs and preventative repairs. Procurement, Maintenance & Services Plan and procure materials/equipment to ensure uninterrupted operations. Establish and run preventative maintenance plans for equipment and structures. Coordinate internal/external services to meet agreed timelines and outcomes. Documentation, Reporting & Compliance Keep accurate, timely records (irrigation, fertigation, sprays, labour, yields, QC). Support food-safety and health & safety practices; present audit-ready documentation. Report weekly on KPIs (yields, quality, inputs, labour productivity) and recommend corrective actions. Minimum requirements Tertiary qualification : Agricultural/Horticultural management diploma/degree . 3+ years’ soft-fruit growing/production experience (role suits a young, energetic professional ready to take ownership). Strong literacy, numeracy, and computer skills with excellent report writing . Valid driver’s licence and own transport . #J-18808-Ljbffr