Head, Technical Service

Job title : Head, Technical Service

Job Summary

To provide technical leadership and specialist agronomic support for plantation operations through the management of agronomic information systems, crop forecasting, GIS mapping, field audits, soil and leaf sampling programs, fertiliser recommendations, pest and disease monitoring, SOP development, and performance analysis to drive sustainable yield improvement and operational excellence.

Job Details

Agronomic Management and Technical Advisory

• Provide technical support and advisory services to estate management teams on all agronomic matters.
• Support yield intensification initiatives and continuous improvement programs.
• Conduct agronomic assessments and recommend corrective actions to improve plantation productivity.

AIMS Management

• Manage and maintain the Agronomic Information Management System (AIMS).
• Ensure timely collection, validation, processing and storage of agronomic data.
• Generate monthly, quarterly and annual agronomic performance reports.
• Crop Forecasting and Production Planning
• Coordinate Black Bunch Count (BBC) surveys across plantation blocks.
• Prepare monthly crop forecasts and production projections.
• Analyze production trends and yield performance.

Soil Fertility Management

• Coordinate soil sampling programmes.
• Interpret soil analysis reports and develop fertilizer recommendations.
• Monitor fertilizer application programmes and effectiveness.
• Leaf Sampling and Nutritional Monitoring
• Coordinate leaf and rachis sampling programmes.
• Monitor nutritional status and deficiency symptoms.
• Maintain nutrient databases and records.

GIS and Estate Mapping

• Manage GIS databases and mapping activities.
• Produce and update estate maps and georeferenced records.

Field Audits and SOP Management

• Conduct routine field audits and inspections.
• Develop, review and update Standard Operating Procedures.

Pest, Disease and Environmental Monitoring

• Coordinate pest and disease surveillance activities.
• Monitor environmental and sustainability parameters.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or HND in Agriculture, Agronomy, Soil Science, Crop Protection, Plantation Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7–10 years' relevant post-qualification experience in plantation operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of oil palm cultivation practices, agronomy, and crop management.
• Proficiency in nursery management, field establishment, maintenance practices, and yield improvement techniques.
• Good understanding of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and fertilizer management.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead and motivate field teams effectively.
• Strong commitment to safety, sustainability, quality, and continuous improvement.