Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.

With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading avocado experts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.

Westfalia Fruit Estate, situated in Limpopo, Tzaneen, has a vacancy for a suitably qualified and experienced: Horticultural Science Researcher

Purpose of the role:

The incumbent will conduct horticultural research to enhance the productivity and quality of avocado trees and fruit, focusing on sustainability (e.g., water use) and innovation. Responsibilities include engaging with different stakeholders to identify solutions to production challenges or finding innovations to improve production efficiency and real time monitoring of orchard conditions. The incumbent will be involved in short- and medium-term projects that may require multi-discipline coordination with a strong focus on communication and project management. The incumbent will daily basis capture and analyse data coordinate their teams’ activities and look after their training and safety in the workplace. The horticulturalist will also support breeders with plant screening in various geographies. The role requires strong communication skills to translate research findings into practical applications, either through reports or presentations. Regular local travel, and occasional international will be required

Key Responsibilities:

• Scientifically design trials to address various production and/or quality challenges.
• Collect, analyse, and interpret research data to inform best practices.
• Compile and present research findings through reports and presentations.
• Oversee staff, ensuring effective coaching and development.
• Manage research budgets, maintaining expenditures within 10% of the set budget.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards (ISO 45001).
• Provide technical consultation on horticultural aspects to Westfalia’s farming operations and partners (nationally and internationally).
• Plan, implement, maintain, and evaluate horticultural research trials.

• Minimum of a MSc (Agric) in Horticulture, Plant Physiology, or a related field. A PhD is preferrable.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in agricultural research, preferably in fruit production.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Expertise in research methodology, orchard management, and report writing.
• Proficiency in MS Office and statistical analysis software
• Fluency in English (Spanish, Portuguese, or Mandarin is an advantage).
• Strong communication and analytical skills
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Team player with a proactive and results-driven mindset.
  

The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package, which comprises a provident fund, insured benefits, medical aid, and an option to structure an annual bonus.

Closing date for applications will be 07 April 2025.

Should you not receive correspondence 01 May 2025, please regard your application as being unsuccessful.