Plennegy Research works closely with Starke Ayres, the main vegetable seed distributor, to ensure the highest standards in seed production and distribution. Plennegy Research is the foremost African specialist and global supplier of premium vegetable, flower and lawn seed varieties – both for commercial and home garden planting. The following position has become available for a Junior Tunnel Manager, based in Kempton Park. The purpose of this role is to manage all structures on the Research Farm for the purpose of protective cropping to ensure that research activities can be carried out effectively and efficiently. We are seeking a dedicated and experienced candidate with a strong background in vegetable crop management. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and strong technical and mechanical abilities, particularly in maintaining and repairing equipment such as pumps.

RESPONSIBILTIES

General Maintenance:

• Ensure hygiene, appearance, and tidiness around all tunnel structures, including roads, lawns, and fences.

Collaboration with Breeders:

• Work closely with breeders to determine ideal growing conditions for optimum pollination and seed production.


• Manipulate plants to meet breeding requirements and screen conditions representative of commercial practices.

Climate Control:

• Program and adjust seasonal and daily settings for:

- Day length
- Cooling
- Heating
- Ventilation
- Radiation

Monitoring and Maintenance:

• Monitor, maintain, and service:

- Greenhouse structures
- Pump room and fertigation systems
- Wet walls
- Fresh water supply
- Spraying equipment
- Heating equipment (Boiler)
- Weather station (with long-term record keeping)

Plant Health Monitoring:

• Monitor general plant appearance throughout the day and apply corrective measures for:
  - Wilting/heat stress
  - Nutritional abnormalities
  - Chemical burns
  - Physiological abnormalities
  - Physical damage

Fertigation Management:

• Program fertigation systems based on commercial fertilizer recommendations.


• Consult with fertilizer/nutrition experts monthly to prevent and address potential problems.


• Monitor EC, pH, and run-off figures daily, with appropriate record keeping and reporting.


• Adjust fertigation programs after consultation with breeders and fertilizer experts.


• Identify and solve nutritional deficiencies/toxicities.


• Recommend adjustments in growing medium composition.


• Take leaf samples, interpret analysis with nutritional experts, and adjust fertigation programs accordingly.

Pest and Disease Control:

• Sanitize and disinfect facilities daily/seasonally.


• Ensure availability and correct application of sanitizers, gloves, boots, and coats to prevent disease spread.


• Scout for pests and diseases daily.


• Recommend spraying programs after consultation with internal and external experts.


• Monitor the efficiency of spray recommendations and make necessary adjustments.

Staff Supervision:

• Hire and manage staff/labor, including:
  - Assigning work schedules
  - Spraying responsibilities
  - Pump room and fertigation activities
  - General greenhouse activities
  - Health and safety protocols, especially regarding hazardous chemicals
  - Train staff on the above responsibilities.

Administrative Duties:

• Compile the greenhouse budget in collaboration with the operations manager.


• Order supplies, including:
  - Chemicals
  - Fertilizers
  - Planting bags
  - Growing mediums

Technology and Industry Engagement:

• Stay updated with the latest technology by:
  - Interacting with other professionals in the industry
  - Attending local industry meetings (e.g., seedling growers association)
  - Attending appropriate courses

Plant Management:

• Take full responsibility for plantings owned by off-station breeders and marketing, including:
  - Sowing and growing seedlings
  - Transplanting
  - Pruning and trellising
  - Harvesting
  - Record keeping
  - Cleaning out obsolete plants and materials

Weekend and Holiday Monitoring:

• Continue monitoring over weekends and public holidays, resulting in regular overtime.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications:

• Grade 12 (Essential)


• Diploma in Agriculture (Preferential) NQF L6

Experience:

• Irrigation scheduling course (Ideal)


• Mechanical and Technical experience (e.g. Fixing a pump)


• Extensive knowledge about farming and day-to-day vegetable crop operations

Other:

• Must be willing to reside on the farm premises in Bredell (Kempton Park)


• Willing to work over weekends when needed