Technical Manager (berries)

Recruiter:

iStaff Recruitment

Job Ref:

CPT000649/CB

Date posted:

Monday, February 10, 2025

Location:

Brits, South Africa

Salary:

Monthly

SUMMARY:
We require an experienced Technical Manager who understands the technical side of strawberries; irrigation, fertigation, crop protection, exports, quality control and compliance.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements:

Grade 12
Tertiary qualification in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or related field.
Minimum 5 years of experience in berry or high-value crop production.
Strong knowledge of irrigation systems, fertigation, and crop protection.
Experience with export standards, certifications, and market requirements.
Familiarity with precision agriculture and farm management software is a plus.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Crop Production & Agronomy:

Develop and implement best agronomic practices for strawberry cultivation, including soil preparation, planting, pruning, and harvesting.
Monitor plant growth, fruit development, and quality standards to maximize yield.
Implement strategies to extend the growing season and improve fruit size, flavor, and shelf life.

Pest & Disease Management:

Identify, monitor, and control pests and diseases affecting strawberry crops.
Develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including biological and chemical control measures.
Ensure compliance with local and international phytosanitary regulations.

Irrigation & Fertigation Management:

Oversee precision irrigation and fertigation systems to optimize water and nutrient use.
Monitor soil moisture levels and adjust irrigation schedules accordingly.
Ensure the correct application of fertilizers to enhance plant health and productivity.

Post-Harvest Handling & Quality Control:

Implement quality control measures from harvesting to packaging to ensure strawberries meet local and export market standards.
Train staff on proper handling, grading, and cold chain management.
Work with packing teams to minimize post-harvest losses.

Compliance & Certification:

Ensure adherence to GAP (Good Agricultural Practices), HACCP, GlobalG.A.P., and other industry certifications.
Maintain accurate records of chemical usage, irrigation schedules, and production data for audits.
Stay updated on export regulations and ensure compliance for international shipments.

Research & Development:

Explore new strawberry varieties and advanced farming techniques to improve productivity.
Implement automation and technology solutions (e.g., greenhouse control, AI-driven irrigation) to enhance efficiency.
Conduct trials on new fertilizers, pest control methods, and cultivation techniques.

Team Management & Training:

Train and supervise farm workers, agronomists, and technical staff.
Develop training programs on strawberry farming best practices.
Ensure a safe working environment and compliance with labor laws.

Key Skills & Competencies:
â Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
â Hands-on experience in strawberry production.
â Ability to manage farm workers and technical teams.
â Knowledge of sustainable and climate-smart farming practices.
â Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
â Ability to work under pressure and adapt to seasonal demands.

PLEASE NOTE: Thank you for your interest in this position, we will review and be in touch if you are suitable.

Due to the amount of applications we receive for each position, we are unable to respond to each one individually. Please accept your application as unsuccessful if you had no feedback within 7 days of applying. Your CV will remain on our database and we will be in touch for other suitable positions.

*** In the meantime, please download our

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