Summary
Date Posted: Tuesday, September 17 2024, Base Salary: Not Disclosed

JOB DETAILS:
Pearl of Africa Oil & Nut Company is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Macadamia and Avocado Agronomist to oversee the entire agricultural process for our macadamia and avocado plantations. The successful candidate will be responsible for planting, tree management, pest control, pruning, yield management, and post-harvest processes such as storage and packing. The role requires an individual with expertise in agronomy, crop health, and market management to ensure optimal productivity and sustainability of our crops

Key Responsibilities:
1. Planting and Tree Management:
• Develop and implement planting strategies for macadamia and avocado trees, ensuring proper spacing, planting depth, and soil preparation.
• Monitor tree health, growth, and development to ensure high-quality yields.
• Optimize irrigation and nutrient management programs to maximize tree vitality and productivity.
2. Pest and Disease Control:
• Identify potential pest and disease risks and implement effective integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Apply chemical and organic pesticides as required, ensuring compliance with environmental safety standards.
• Monitor and manage any disease outbreaks to protect trees and yield.
3. Pruning and Canopy Management:
• Develop and execute pruning schedules to optimize tree structure and fruit production.
• Ensure proper canopy management to enhance sunlight penetration and air circulation.
4. Yield Management:
• Monitor fruit development and implement strategies to improve yield quantity and quality.
• Ensure regular assessment of trees for nutrient deficiencies or excesses, adjusting fertilization as needed.
• Provide forecasts for expected yields based on field assessments and environmental factors.
5. Fertilizer and Chemical Requirements:
• Design fertilization programs tailored to macadamia and avocado growth cycles and soil health.
• Ensure accurate application of fertilizers and chemicals in compliance with safety standards and sustainable practices.
• Monitor soil health regularly, implementing strategies to maintain or improve fertility and structure.
6. Harvesting, Storage, and Post-Harvest Management:
• Oversee the timely and efficient harvesting of macadamias and avocados to maintain peak quality.
• Implement best practices for storage to ensure freshness and minimize post-harvest losses.
• Supervise packing and grading processes to meet market standards.
7. Market and Product Development:
• Collaborate with the marketing team to ensure the timely and efficient distribution of harvested products to local and international markets.
• Stay updated on market trends and advise the company on new product development or marketing strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with buyers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the value chain.
8. Research and Development:
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in macadamia and avocado agronomy and implement innovative farming techniques.
• Experiment with new varieties, growth methods, and sustainable agricultural practices to improve productivity and reduce costs.
9. Team Leadership and Training:
• Supervise farm staff and provide training on best agronomic practices for macadamia and avocado cultivation.
• Work closely with other agronomists, farm managers, and workers to ensure seamless operations.

Qualifications & Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, or a related field. A Master's degree will be an added advantage.
• At least 5 years of hands-on experience working with macadamia and avocado cultivation.
• Proven knowledge of planting, tree management, pest and disease control, and post-harvest management.
• Strong understanding of fertilizers, chemicals, and soil health for sustainable farming.
• Experience in yield management and data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with local and international markets for macadamia and avocado products.

Skills:
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Proficiency in farm management software or other relevant tools.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: 60

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

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