Ceres: Project Manager: Engineering (Agricultural Sector) posted by Joubert & Associates

Shelanti Agri Consultation is a specialist provider of orchard and vineyard infrastructure, advanced netting systems, and agricultural mechanisation. Operating from Ceres, the company focuses on supporting high-value fruit and wine-grape producers and works in close partnership with Valente Solutions in Italy, distributing their full range of structural and protection systems in South Africa.

Shelanti Agri currently has two Project Manager roles available:

1. Junior role: A graduate with no or limited experience
2. Senior role: A more experienced Project Manager

The incumbent(s) will be responsible for the full lifecycle management of Valente structural projects for orchards and vineyards from initial planning and design oversight through on-site surveying, installation execution, client relations, progress reporting, and final project closeout. These roles require strong technical coordination, planning, and management & organisational skills to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget, while upholding Valente’s international quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Project planning, documentation & coordination
  • Develop comprehensive project plans, timelines, resource allocations, and budgets in coordination with management and clients
  • Prepare material take-offs, BOMs, and installation guidelines
  • Maintain version-controlled technical files and ensure compliance with Valente standards
  • Ensure adherence to all relevant regulations and legislation

• Technical Design & Drafting
  • Prepare and revise project layouts, structural designs, and detailed CAD drawings
  • Perform / coordinate static load calculations, pole and cable sizing, and anchor verifications
  • Liaise with Valente Italy engineers to validate technical solutions and innovations

• Site Coordination & Land Surveying
  • Conduct and verify land surveying using GPS/GNSS (RTK) for layout, alignment, and as-built records
  • Mark out pole, row, and anchor positions in accordance with approved designs
  • Capture topographical and as-built data for project documentation

• Project Execution & Oversight
  • Manage on-site installation teams and subcontractors
  • Conduct regular site visits to monitor daily progress, material usage, safety, and workmanship quality
  • Collaborate with suppliers and logistics for timely material readiness
  • Ensure all documentation required for project handover and reporting is complete and accurate

• Communication & Reporting
  • Act as primary contact for clients during project execution.
  • Communicate design changes or clarifications between the client and the design office in Italy
  • Prepare weekly progress reports and final completion reports

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Civil / Structural Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Quantity Surveying, or related field
• Junior role: no or limited experience
• Senior role: 5+ years experience in agricultural, civil, or structural project management
• Strong proficiency in CAD software (Autodesk Civil 3D or similar) and MS Office / Excel
• Proficiency in GPS/GNSS land surveying and site layout verification (RTK preferred) will be advantageous
• Strong reporting and communication abilities (both Afrikaans & English essential; Italian advantageous)
• Valid drivers licence and willingness to travel nationwide
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills