Job Summary
The Agronomist will be responsible for planning, managing, and optimizing the production of greenhouse-grown bell peppers and open-field habanero peppers. This role focuses on achieving high yields, superior fruit quality, and sustainable production through effective crop management, soil and substrate fertility, irrigation, pest and disease control, and data-driven decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Crop Management
- Plan and oversee the full crop cycle for greenhouse bell peppers and open-field habanero peppers, from nursery establishment to harvest.
- Develop and implement crop calendars, planting schedules, and harvest forecasts.
- Monitor plant growth, phenology, and crop health to ensure optimal performance.
Greenhouse Bell Pepper Production
- Manage greenhouse climate control systems (temperature, humidity, ventilation, CO₂).
- Optimize fertigation programs using substrates or soil-based systems.
- Implement pruning, trellising, and plant density strategies to maximize yield and fruit quality.
Open-Field Habanero Pepper Production
- Manage soil preparation, transplanting, and field layout.
- Design and supervise irrigation and fertilization programs adapted to local soil and climate conditions.
- Monitor weather patterns and adjust agronomic practices accordingly.
Soil, Substrate, and Nutrition Management
- Conduct soil, water, and substrate analyses and interpret results.
- Develop balanced nutrient management plans tailored to each crop and growth stage.
- Monitor EC, pH, and nutrient uptake, making adjustments as needed.
Pest, Disease, and Weed Management
- Identify and manage pests, diseases, and physiological disorders common to pepper crops.
- Implement Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, including biological controls where applicable.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations on crop protection products and food safety standards.
Yield, Quality, and Data Management
- Track yields, input costs, and crop performance indicators.
- Analyze production data to improve efficiency, consistency, and profitability.
- Prepare technical reports and recommendations for management.
Team Support and Training
- Train and supervise field and greenhouse staff on best agronomic practices.
- Provide technical guidance during planting, crop maintenance, and harvest operations.
- Promote safe and efficient working practices.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Horticulture, Agricultural Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience with:
- Greenhouse bell pepper production, and
- Open-field habanero or hot pepper cultivation.
- Strong knowledge of fertigation systems, irrigation scheduling, and climate management.
- Experience with IPM, pest and disease diagnostics, and crop nutrition.
- Familiarity with yield forecasting, record keeping, and agricultural data analysis.
- Proficient in using agronomic software, spreadsheets, and monitoring tools.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and make data-driven decisions.
- Excellent communication and team leadership abilities.
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality and sustainability.
- Willingness to work flexible hours during critical production periods.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience with export-quality pepper production.
- Knowledge of food safety certifications (e.g., Global G.A.P., HACCP).
- Familiarity with sustainable or regenerative agricultural practices.
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