Job Description

Consulting Services/Permanent - Aquaponics & Weltevreden Farm (Greater Cradle Nature Reserve)

1. SCOPE OF WORK

Aquaponics Facility

The initial objective will be to restore the aquaponics systems to full operational status, with a strong focus on hygiene, organization, and functionality.

Key Areas of Focus:

Resuscitate and repair existing infrastructure, ensuring all installed systems are fully functional. Repair shade netting to ensure appropriate cover and environmental control. Implement a structured operations program, including daily task schedules for staff. Conduct daily system monitoring with formalized checklists--seven days a week--to ensure consistency and accountability. Provide targeted staff training and, if necessary, recommend adjustments to current work schedules to accommodate required daily checks. Once the system is stabilized, initiate the procurement of rainbow trout hatchlings and appropriate seedlings to resume vegetable and herb production. Review and upgrade the harvesting process, with emphasis on hygienic sorting, adequate storage, and efficient delivery systems.

Weltevreden Farm

At present, the farm is not operating at full potential. The focus will be on optimizing existing systems and identifying areas for strategic improvements.

Key Areas of Focus:

Review and streamline all current production systems. Implement operational tools such as daily staff task lists, record-keeping systems, stock control measures, and improved harvesting and delivery processes. Expand the chicken flock to increase organic egg production. Introduce more efficient irrigation systems for vegetable and herb cultivation. Enhance composting operations and develop on-site organic fertilizer and pest control production. Continue black wattle eradication and firewood processing, with a long-term vision of producing biochar and related income-generating products. Assist with general oversight of the Nguni cattle herd, in collaboration with yourself, to ensure proper care and management. Focus on producing specialty herbs and vegetables for the on-site hotel restaurant, with potential expansion to external markets for added revenue.
Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person