Strawberry Field Foreman at Status Staffing

• A well-established recruitment company is seeking a Strawberry Field Foreman on behalf of a client based in Stellenbosch. The Strawberry Field Foreman is responsible for the effective supervision and management of strawberry harvesting and field operations to ensure that production targets, quality standards, food safety requirements, hygiene practices, and health and safety regulations are achieved. The Foreman will lead and supervise harvesting teams, ensure compliance with all relevant accreditation standards, maintain discipline within the workforce, and ensure accurate completion of attendance and production records.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Matric certificate (Grade 12).
• Agricultural or supervisory training will be advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in strawberry farming, fruit production, or agricultural operations.
• Previous supervisory or foreman experience preferred.
• Experience working with food safety systems and agricultural audits.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage teams and maintain discipline.
• Good understanding of strawberry harvesting standards and productivity requirements.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and health and safety practices.
• Good record-keeping and administrative abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.

DUTIES:

Key Performance Areas
The performance of the Strawberry Field Foreman will be measured against:

• Achievement of production and harvesting targets.
• Compliance with quality and picking standards.
• Picker productivity and labour efficiency.
• Food safety and hygiene compliance.
• Health and safety compliance.
• Successful accreditation and audit outcomes.
• Accuracy of register books and operational records.
• Effective management of labour and discipline.
• Reduction of fruit wastage and harvesting losses.
• Willing and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions

Production Management

• Supervise and coordinate daily strawberry harvesting activities.
• Ensure harvesting operations are carried out efficiently and according to production plans.
• Monitor crop conditions and report any concerns affecting production or quality.
• Ensure daily, weekly, and seasonal production targets are achieved.
• Minimise fruit losses, wastage, and damage during harvesting and handling.

Quality Control and Picking Standards

• Ensure all strawberries are harvested according to company quality standards and customer specifications.
• Train workers on correct harvesting techniques and picking procedures.
• Monitor picker performance and productivity throughout the working day.
• Conduct regular quality inspections of harvested fruit.
• Ensure only marketable fruit is harvested and packed according to company standards.
• Implement corrective measures where quality standards are not met.

Team Leadership and Labour Management

• Supervise, lead, and motivate harvesting teams to achieve operational goals.
• Allocate labour efficiently according to daily operational requirements.
• Ensure workers understand and comply with company policies and procedures.
• Promote teamwork, productivity, and a positive work environment.
• Identify training needs and provide on-the-job coaching where necessary.

Hygiene, Food Safety and Compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with food safety and hygiene requirements.
• Monitor worker hygiene practices and adherence to food safety protocols.
• Ensure harvesting equipment, containers, facilities, and work areas remain clean and hygienic.
• Immediately report and address any food safety risks or non-conformances.
• Assist in maintaining traceability and food safety records.

Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and company safety procedures.
• Conduct regular safety briefings and toolbox talks.
• Ensure workers wear and use the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Identify and report workplace hazards and unsafe practices.
• Investigate and report incidents, accidents, and near misses.
• Promote and maintain a safe working environment at all times.

Accreditation Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable accreditation and certification requirements, including:
• Global G.A.P.
• GRASP
• SIZA
• Customer-specific standards and protocols
• Maintain all records required for audits and inspections.
• Assist management during internal and external audits.
• Ensure workers understand and comply with accreditation requirements.

Discipline and Performance Management

• Maintain discipline within the harvesting teams in accordance with company policies and labour legislation.
• Address misconduct, absenteeism, poor performance, and non-compliance appropriately.
• Report disciplinary matters to management when required.
• Monitor attendance and timekeeping of all employees under supervision.
• Record Keeping and Administration
• Accurately complete and maintain the team's Register Book on a daily basis.
• Record attendance, absenteeism, leave, overtime, and labour allocation.
• Maintain daily production and harvesting records.
• Complete quality, safety, and compliance documentation as required.
• Submit reports and records to management accurately and on time