Agrijob
Description
A leading international, innovative grower of berries and organics for over 30 years in the UK and South Africa, is recruiting a crop production graduate with 1-3 years' experience, who is passionate, motivated, and eager to improve themselves, for a one-year Graduate Development Programme in the UK and South Africa.
Graduates will work for 6 months in the UK at crop production (husbandry) operations, and 6 months at the local operation in South Africa. The aim is future succession planning and permanent employment either in the UK or South Africa.
Job Overview:
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- Team supervision.
- Lead, motivate and support seasonal and permanent labour.
- Organise daily/weekly tasks supported by grower.
- Monitor performance to meet production targets.
- Respond quickly to issues.
- Encourage safe and efficient work practices.
- Ensure proper use and maintenance of farm equipment.
- Suggest improvements in crop husbandry and farm efficiency.
- Maintain accurate records of crop husbandry tasks, performance, targets and costs.
- Respond to emergencies in the event of extreme weather (heat, snow or wind), ensuring infrastructure integrity and flexibility in hours to get the job done right the first time.
- Care of the annual crop production (husbandry) budget.
- Adhere to all Health & Safety regulations, maintaining farm housekeeping standards.
Key Skills Required:
- Degree (or equivalent) in Agriculture, Plant/Crop Production, Horticulture, Plant Science, Biological Sciences, Agri-Business or related field.
- Demonstrated interest in crop production or sustainable agriculture. Some experience in crop production and sustainable agriculture will be advantageous (through studies, projects, or practical work).
- Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to motivate others.
- Enthusiastic, adaptable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends during peak season.
- Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Previous experience in soft fruit production, crop husbandry, or harvest work (e.g., seasonal/farm work, placements, or internships).
- Knowledge of basic agronomy, pest and disease management, irrigation, or plant nutrition.
- Experience in leading or supervising small teams (could be from work, sports, volunteering, or university projects) and working in teams.
- Basic understanding of Health & Safety in a workplace environment.
- Driving licence (to allow movement between sites)
More specific key skills required: A crop production background will be advantageous.
- Good people and communication skills are essential.
- Budget and cost awareness.
- Planning.
- Work quickly and calmly under pressure.
- Willing to do any task.
- Proactive, confident, and content to work with people from all walks of life.