TECHNICAL MANAGER – HORTICULTURE / AGRONOMIST

SUMMARY:
Selebi Phikwe Area, Central District – Botswana: Looking for an experienced Agronomist to strengthen the technical and day-to-day performance of this large-scale citrus operation.
This is a practical, hands-on role for someone who enjoys being in the orchards and turning sound agronomic knowledge into consistent results.
 

POSITION INFO:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS A relevant tertiary qualification in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Production or a closely related agricultural field. At least five years of substantial, hands-on experience in commercial citrus production, including responsibility for agronomic programmes and orchard performance. Strong practical knowledge of citrus phenology, plant nutrition, irrigation and fertigation, pest and disease management, pruning, crop manipulation and harvest preparation. Experience in young-orchard establishment and developing production systems in a greenfield or expanding operation will be an advantage. A sound understanding of responsible chemical use, food-safety requirements, environmental compliance and accurate production records. SKILLS REQUIRED Strong agronomic judgement and the ability to turn technical recommendations into clear, practical field plans. Good planning and coordination across irrigation, spraying, nutrition, pruning, scouting and harvesting activities. An analytical and practical approach to solving problems, interpreting production data and responding quickly when results differ from plan. Commercial awareness and disciplined use of labour, inputs, equipment and production costs. Clear written and verbal communication, including confident reporting to senior management. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, with the ability to use digital production and record-keeping systems. A visible, hands-on working style and willingness to spend significant time in the orchards. Willingness to relocate to Selebi Phikwe, Botswana KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO Develop and implement the annual agronomic and orchard production plan in line with yield, fruit quality, cost and operational targets. Provide practical guidance on irrigation, fertigation, plant nutrition, crop protection, pruning, canopy management, flowering, fruit set and crop load. Oversee the establishment and care of young citrus orchards within a large-scale greenfield development. Review orchard data, field observations and production records to identify risks, diagnose problems and recommend timely corrective action. Coordinate pest and disease scouting and ensure that control measures are effective, compliant and properly recorded. Monitor spray quality, chemical use, irrigation efficiency, fertiliser application and other critical horticultural activities. Coordinate harvest readiness, crop estimates, picking standards and production support to meet quality and volume requirements. Maintain practical operating procedures, accurate records, quality standards and continuous improvement across production activities. Prepare clear, concise reports on orchard performance, risks, variances, resource requirements and corrective actions. ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted