Avocado Orchard Manager

About the role

An agricultural company based in Bomet, Kenya, is hiring an Avocado Orchard Manager to oversee the cultivation and harvesting of avocados. The role combines horticultural expertise, strong management skills and hands-on experience, and the successful candidate will keep the orchard healthy and productive while ensuring efficient, sustainable production of high-quality fruit. Prior experience in avocado cultivation and harvesting is required.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of avocado tree care, including planting, pruning, fertilization and irrigation.
• Monitor tree health and implement pest and disease control measures.
• Develop and implement production plans to maximize yield and quality.
• Supervise and train orchard staff, schedule work assignments and ensure efficient operations.
• Manage irrigation systems and other farm equipment.
• Oversee selection of healthy seeds and propagation of avocado seedlings.
• Manage grafting and budding to produce high-quality, disease-resistant trees.
• Maintain nursery conditions, including irrigation, fertilization and pest control.
• Plan site preparation such as soil testing, land clearing and terracing, and design planting layouts.

Required profile

• Minimum degree in horticulture, agriculture or a related field (often preferred).
• Extensive experience in orchard management, preferably with avocados, of more than 8 years.
• Ability to manage and motivate a team, with excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Practical knowledge of good agricultural practices and problem-solving ability.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of avocado cultivation practices.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems, pest management and fertilization techniques.
• Ability to operate and maintain farm equipment.
• Understanding of budgeting and financial controls.

Applications are made through the recruitment agency, Summit Recruitment & Search, which states that it cannot reply to every applicant and advises candidates to check back after two weeks if they have not heard back.