Junior Farm Manager

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Founded in 2020, Groenewald Agri is a dynamic family-operated fruit farming business producing high-quality apples and pears for export to over 40 international markets. Situated between Villiersdorp and Riviersonderend in the Western Cape’s prime fruit-growing region, the company has grown from one farm to five productive units. With continued expansion and a strong focus on orchard performance and quality standards, Groenewald Agri is looking to appoint an experienced Junior Farm Manager to strengthen its operational leadership.

The incumbent provides a supporting role with regard to supervision, administration and productivity to the Farm Manager. The job incumbent is responsible for ensuring that all production practices are implemented effectively and according to protocol as per the Farm Manager’s instruction..

Responsibilities:

• Support the Farm Manager in planning and prioritising daily and weekly farm operations
• Supervise and guide production teams, ensuring productivity, quality standards, and safe working practices
• Provide on-the-job training, monitor performance, and motivate staff
• Assist in managing orchard production activities including planting, pruning, crop estimation, harvest planning, and quality control
• Monitor tree health, irrigation, soil moisture, fertilisation, and overall orchard conditions
• Conduct regular inspections for pests, diseases, fruit quality, and compliance with standards
• Assist with workforce planning, time and attendance monitoring, and handling basic disciplinary and HR matters
• Act as liaison between management and staff, ensuring clear communication
• Support general farm maintenance, equipment upkeep, and cleanliness of the production unit
• Monitor stock levels (chemicals, fertilisers, materials) and assist with ordering when required
• Assist in implementing and maintaining health, safety, environmental, and quality compliance systems (e.g., Global G.A.P., BRC)

Requirements:

• Matric (minimum requirement); relevant tertiary qualification advantageous
• 1–2 years’ experience in a similar or agricultural role
• Knowledge of the fruit industry beneficial
• Practical and theoretical understanding of farm management principles
• Knowledge of fruit trees (apples and pears advantageous)
• Basic understanding of water management and irrigation
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good understanding of quality management practices
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Effective time management and multi-tasking skills
• Numerically competent and computer literate
• Hard-working and able to perform under pressure
• Detail-oriented with a practical and logical mindset
• Self-motivated and able to work independently
• Team player who is assertive, honest, and trustworthy