Agronomist (Brassica) at Mayfly Agri (Pty) Ltd

• A well-established fresh produce farming operation is seeking the above to oversee crop management, soil health, and irrigation systems while implementing sustainable practices and innovations to optimize crop performance and efficiency.

Minimum requirements for the role:

• Must have a relevant tertiary qualification related to manufacturing, quality, or engineering
• Minimum 5-10 years' experience in vegetables
• Extensive knowledge on agrochemicals and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential
• Must have extensive knowledge on soil health and plant nutrition 
• Strong problem-solving ability and curiosity for the industry
• Willingness to be challenged and an eagerness to learn new methods
• Wide network within the industry is advantageous
• Must have the ability to manage small teams and suppliers
• Tech-savvy with the ability to utilize technology effectively
• Strong computer literacy with advanced Excel skills

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Developing and implementing effective crop management plans for optimal growth, yield, and quality.
• Monitoring crop health and addressing pests, disease, and weed management using sustainable practices.
• Conducting soil analysis and recommending appropriate fertilizers and amendments to improve soil health.
• Developing strategies for sustainable nutrient management.
• Staying up to date with advancements in agricultural technologies and integrating them into standard practices.
• Evaluating new seed varieties and farming techniques to improve crop performance.
• Designing and managing efficient irrigation schedules and systems to conserve water and support plant health.
• Maintaining detailed records of crop performance, soil health, and farming operations.
• Analyzing data to recommend process improvements and support decision-making.
• Working closely with farm managers, production teams, and other stakeholders to align farming operations with manufacturing needs.
• Providing training and technical guidance to the farming team on best practices.
• Ensuring adherence to environmental regulations and promoting sustainable farming practices.
• Implementing practices to reduce waste and improve overall farm efficiency.
• Planning and coordinating planting, cultivation, and harvesting schedules in line with market demand and manufacturing requirements.
• Identifying and addressing agronomic issues promptly to mitigate risks and ensure consistent production.