Overview
Stone Fruit Production Manager (Nectarines) Jobs in Wellington at Rein Trust
Location: Wellington, Western Cape
Employment Type: Full-Time / Permanent
Reporting To: Trustees
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and driven Stone Fruit Production Manager to lead and oversee all nectarine production activities across our farming operation. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing orchard performance, crop quality, labour, irrigation, nutrition, pest control, and harvest planning to ensure optimal yield and export-quality fruit production.
This is a senior operational role requiring strong horticultural expertise, leadership ability, and a hands-on management approach.
Key Responsibilities
Production Management
- Plan, coordinate, and manage all nectarine orchard operations from dormancy through harvest
- Oversee pruning, thinning, training, canopy management, and orchard establishment
- Implement and monitor irrigation, fertigation, and nutrition programs
- Coordinate pest, disease, and spray programs in conjunction with technical advisors
- Monitor orchard health, fruit development, maturity, and crop estimates
- Drive continuous improvement in orchard productivity and fruit quality
Harvest & Quality Management
- Plan and manage harvest scheduling according to maturity and market requirements
- Ensure harvest teams meet productivity and fruit handling standards
- Liaise with packhouse/export teams regarding volumes, timing, and quality specifications
- Monitor pack-outs and quality feedback to improve field practices
Team Leadership
- Manage and supervise permanent and seasonal production staff
- Conduct labour planning and workforce allocation across orchard activities
- Train supervisors and workers on best practices and operational standards
- Maintain a safe, disciplined, and productive working environment
Financial & Administrative Management
- Prepare and manage production budgets and cost controls
- Monitor labour, input, and machinery costs against budget
- Maintain accurate production records, spray records, irrigation logs, and orchard reports
Compliance & Standards
- Ensure compliance with GlobalG.A.P., SIZA, Health & Safety, and internal standards
- Maintain traceability and audit-ready documentation
- Promote sustainable farming and environmental best practices
Minimum Requirements
- Degree/Diploma in Agriculture, Horticulture, Pomology, or related field
- Minimum 5+ years’ experience in commercial stone fruit production
- Proven experience specifically with nectarines / stone fruit orchards
- Knowledge in Table Grapes practices and production will be very advantageous to this role
- Strong knowledge of:
- Irrigation scheduling
- Fertigation / nutrition management
- Pest and disease management
- Crop estimation and harvest planning
- Demonstrated leadership and team management experience
- Computer literacy (MS Office / farm management software)
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred Attributes
- Experience in export-focused fruit production
- Strong understanding of modern orchard systems and high-density plantings
- Data-driven and detail-oriented approach to production management
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Hands-on, proactive leadership style
Remuneration & Benefits
- Market-related salary based on experience
- Housing / Vehicle
Pay: R1,00 per month
Work Location: In person
Title: Stone Fruit Production Manager (Nectarines)
Company: Rein Trust
Location: Wellington
