Key responsibilities:
To keep all pests of concern in the farm below threshold, ensure maximum harvestable crop with below threshold pest level at Packhouse intake and to ensure the crop is well irrigated as per the irrigation schedule.
OVERAL DUTIES
- To implement chemical crop protection activities for the farm or assigned area.
- To plan weekly spray programs for all crops in consultation with the Production Manager.
- To obtain, follow and update IRAC and FRAC guidelines on use of pesticides.
- To ascertain and supervise the use of only registered chemicals for each crop grown.
- To eliminate chemical residue detection by observance of PHI and reduction of tank mixed active ingredients.
- To ensure integrity of the spray equipment through regular calibrations (minimum monthly).
- To ensure the spray equipment is always in a serviceable state and to follow up on any repairs that may be needed.
- To implement various IPM approaches that help in better pest control, reducing the cost of controls and dependence on synthetic chemicals.
- Continuous supervision and training of the crop protection teams for optimum results and safety of the spray team.
- To carry out any other duties as instructed by the farm manager from time to time.
- Ensure the crop is well irrigated as per the irrigation schedule.
- Avoid over watering and dry areas within area of jurisdiction.
- No damage occurs to the crop due to improper irrigation.
- Ensure fertilizer requisition is ready by Monday.
- Ensure fertilizers are properly measured and transported to pump house.
- Ensure fertilizers are properly mixed in the fertigation tanks whereby Nitrates and Sulphates are put into separate tanks.
- Ensure the correct EC and PH of the stock solution is always maintained.
- Ensure fertigation records are always updated and filed properly.
- Ensure high level of hygiene is maintained in the fertigation pumps.
- Ensure all irrigation and fertigation apparatus are functioning and well maintained.
- Ensure the drip lines are flushed once a week to avoid clogging.
- Ensure the filter is cleaned with a detergent once a week.
- Promote teamwork and ensure disciplinary measures are taken where necessary.
- Ensure drip lines and misters are always properly aligned in your allocated area.
- You will be required to abide by the company’s rules and regulations, failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.
In order to protect your health you must observe the following:
- Follow instructions & orders as given by the management.
- Maintain the PPE issued to you in good order and condition.
- Ensure that PPE given are worn at all times while working.
- Report any problems to the Farm Manager immediately.
SKILLS REQUIRED
- Ability to plan for sprays for different crop growth stages and generate a weekly spray plan.
- Keeping up to date with new trends and products for crop protection
- An understanding of PPPL’s for the various crops under production
- A very good appreciation of pest threshold levels and their effect on final quality and production
- Carrying out efficacy tests periodically.
- Ability to maintain high standard of hygiene
- Ensure proper irrigation of flowers as per irrigation plan.
- Proper work distribution and record keeping