Horticulturist - Fm2184

**White River Area - Mpumalanga**: Our client is looking for a Horticulturist to join the team.

This is a **‘LIVE OUT’** position.

**MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS**
- Degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, or related discipline.
- Experience working with tree crops, preferably macadamia and/or avocado.
- Strong knowledge of plant pathology, entomology, and integrated protection practices.
- Competence in data systems, GPS mapping, and trial protocol execution.
- Excellent communication, planning, and problem-solving skills.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO**

**Plant Health & Protection**
- Monitor, diagnose, and manage pests, diseases, and physiological disorders affecting macadamia and avocado trees.
- Develop and implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies tailored to orchard conditions.
- Coordinate plant health monitoring programs, including field scouting, diagnostics, and data interpretation.

**Tree Breeding & Field Trials**
- Support and manage macadamia and avocado breeding trials, tracking key performance indicators and traits.
- Design and execute field trials for new cultivars, rootstocks, crop protection methods, and nutritional programs.
- Collaborate with internal R&D and external partners on trial protocols, data collection, and reporting.

**Post-Harvest Fruit Quality**
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of orchard practices on nut and fruit quality, including kernel recovery, oil content, bruising, and shelf life.
- Provide technical support to harvest and post-harvest teams to reduce defect rates and optimize handling procedures.
- Establish feedback loops between the field and processing operations to improve outcomes.

**JOB DESCRIPTION**

**Operational Procurement & Inputs**
- Assist with planning and sourcing of horticultural inputs, including crop protection chemicals, fertilizers, and biologicals.
- Maintain accurate input inventories and usage records in compliance with regulatory standards.
- Liaise with vendors and Agri suppliers to ensure timely delivery and quality control of products.

**Risk & Compliance**
- Identify and mitigate risks related to plant biosecurity, agrochemical use, and environmental impact.
- Ensure compliance with local and international food safety, residue, and environmental standards.
- Keep up to date with regulations and best practices affecting macadamia and avocado production.

**Reporting, Communication & Team Support**
- Maintain comprehensive records of plant protection programs, trial data, and quality monitoring.
- Provide regular updates and recommendations to operational managers and stakeholders.
- Deliver training and field guidance to farm teams to support best practices in protection, sanitation, and harvest hygiene.