Hydroponics and nursery manager

 

 

 

Tel: 028 313 2474

Hemel en Aarde l P O Box 1359, Hermanus, 7200

Members: C E Jenkin, E B Jenkin, S M Jenkin

CK 94/33857/23 l VAT Reg. No. 4800183198

 

www.madron.co.za

 

Job Description: Hydroponics & Nursery Manager Position Title: Hydroponics & Nursery Manager Reporting To: Farm Operations Manager Job Purpose The Hydroponics & Nursery Manager is responsible for leading and managing all hydroponic production and nursery operations to ensure optimal crop health, plant quality, operational efficiency, and productivity. The role oversees crop production systems, nursery readiness, resource management, and team performance while driving continuous improvement and supporting future business growth through expanded operational responsibilities and team leadership. Key Responsibilities 1. Leadership and People Management

• Lead, manage, and develop hydroponic and nursery teams to achieve operational objectives.

• Foster a high-performance culture through coaching, training, mentoring, and performance management.

• Ensure adequate staffing levels and workforce planning to support operational requirements.

• Promote compliance with company policies, health and safety standards, and best practices.

• Drive employee engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement initiatives.

2. Hydroponic Production Management

• Oversee all hydroponic growing operations to ensure optimal crop performance and yield.

• Manage crop nutrition programmes and monitor nutrient solutions to maintain plant health.

• Ensure effective irrigation system management and water-use efficiency.

• Coordinate crop planting schedules and production plans to meet operational targets.

• Oversee integrated pest, disease, wildlife, and weed management programmes.

• Manage spraying applications in accordance with regulatory and safety requirements.

• Ensure hydroponic systems are maintained, cleaned, and sanitised to required standards.

• Monitor crop performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.

 

 

 

 

3. Nursery Operations Management

• Oversee nursery production activities, including propagation, seedling development, and plant care.

• Ensure plant quality and readiness meet production requirements and timelines.

• Monitor germination success, growth rates, and plant health standards.

• Optimise nursery processes to improve efficiency, quality, and plant survival rates.

• Coordinate nursery output with operational planting schedules.

• 4. Operational Planning and Control • Develop and implement production plans to meet business

requirements. • Manage operational inputs, including fertilisers, chemicals, growing

media, consumables, and equipment. • Monitor inventory levels and coordinate procurement requirements. • Ensure accurate operational data collection, reporting, and record

keeping. • Analyse production data and recommend improvements to enhance

performance. 5. Financial and Resource Management

• Manage departmental budgets and control operational costs. • Monitor input usage and identify opportunities for cost optimisation. • Ensure efficient utilisation of labour, equipment, and production

resources. • Contribute to business planning and growth strategies.

• 6. Compliance, Quality and Safety • Ensure compliance with agricultural, environmental, health and safety

regulations. • Maintain quality standards across hydroponic and nursery operations. • Implement and monitor food safety and quality assurance

requirements where applicable. • Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance and

operational excellence.

 

 

 

 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) • Crop yield and quality targets achieved. • Nursery plant readiness and survival rates. • Irrigation and nutrient management effectiveness. • Operational efficiency and productivity improvements. • Budget adherence and cost control. • Team performance and development. • Compliance with safety and quality standards. • Reduction in crop losses due to pests, disease, wildlife, or operational failures. Minimum Qualifications • Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, Plant

Production, Crop Science, or a related field. • Additional qualifications in hydroponics, protected agriculture, or nursery

management will be advantageous.

• Experience • Minimum 3-5 years' experience in hydroponic farming, horticulture,

nursery management, or intensive crop production. • Minimum 3-5 years' experience in a management or supervisory role. • Proven experience managing production teams and operational

processes. • Experience with irrigation systems, crop nutrition, pest management, and

nursery operations.

• Knowledge and Skills • Strong understanding of hydroponic systems and crop production

techniques. • Knowledge of plant nutrition, irrigation management, and integrated pest

management. • Strong leadership and people management skills. • Excellent planning, organisational, and problem-solving abilities. • Financial acumen and budget management capability. • Data analysis and reporting skills. • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Key Competencies • Leadership and Team Development • Operational Excellence • Decision Making • Accountability

 

 

 

 

• Continuous Improvement • Results Orientation • Planning and Organising • Analytical Thinking • Adaptability