Plennegy Research Is Hiring: General Worker – Kempton Park | Apply Now
Company: Plennegy Research (Starke Ayres)
Job Title: General Worker
Reference Number: G040730
Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng
Job Type: Permanent
Work Level: Junior
Salary: Market Related
Plennegy Research, through its renowned brand Starke Ayres, is seeking a dedicated and motivated General Worker to join its operations in Kempton Park. Starke Ayres is known as one of Africa’s leading specialists in premium vegetable, flower, and lawn seed varieties, supplying both commercial farmers and home gardeners worldwide. This position supports the seed production and plant development process by ensuring that all farming, greenhouse, and cultivation activities run smoothly and efficiently.
This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about plant production, enjoy hands-on work, and are ready to contribute to high-quality seed development within a professional agricultural research environment.
About Starke Ayres
Starke Ayres, part of the Plennegy Group, is recognized as a market leader in seed research, plant breeding, and seed distribution. The company combines innovation and advanced agricultural techniques to produce top-performing seed varieties suited to African growing conditions. Its research operations rely heavily on accurate plant care, proper cultivation techniques, and attention to detail—making the role of the General Worker essential to the success of the seed production cycle.
Job Overview
The General Worker will support various stages of plant production, including sowing, seedling management, transplanting, pollination activities, harvesting, seed extraction, and greenhouse maintenance. The role requires someone capable of performing repetitive tasks, handling delicate plant materials, and working in open-air environments where weather exposure is expected.
This is a labour-intensive role with both physical and fine-motor skill requirements. The position requires accuracy, consistency, and commitment to maintaining the high-quality standards of Plennegy Research.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will perform a wide range of tasks across the nursery, greenhouse, and field environments. Duties include:
Plant Cultivation & Seedling Management
- Preparing seedling mixes for trays and planting pots
- Filling trays and pots with seedling medium
- Sowing seeds according to established sowing lists
- Moving seedling trays from germination rooms to seedling houses
- Transferring seedlings to greenhouses or open-field planting areas
- Preparing planting holes and supporting transplanting activities
Greenhouse & Field Maintenance
- Arranging filled pots in greenhouses and connecting irrigation drippers
- Managing trellising ropes by preparing, connecting, and securing them
- Cleaning greenhouses, walkways, and equipment to maintain hygienic production environments
Pollination & Plant Breeding Support
- Identifying flowers at the correct developmental stage
- Conducting emasculation procedures according to breeder guidelines
- Performing controlled pollination following the official crossing book
- Monitoring and maintaining pollinated plants and fruits
- Harvesting fruits produced through self-pollination or controlled crosses
Seed Processing
- Extracting seeds from harvested fruits
- Washing and cleaning seeds after fermentation
- Drying seeds to required specifications
- Counting and packaging seeds
- Soaking, washing, and drying seedling trays
General Support
- Moving plants, seedlings, and pots within the facility
- Ensuring neat, organized, and efficient greenhouse and field operations
- Assisting with any additional tasks required by the breeding or production teams
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify:
- National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) – Essential
- Ability to work with fine motor skills and perform tasks involving repetitive hand movements
- Must be able to sit, bend, or handle plant materials for extended periods
- Ability to lift or move up to 10 pounds (approximately 4–5 kg)
- Good vision, including close, distance, peripheral, and color vision, with the ability to adjust focus
- Able to communicate verbally and follow instructions clearly
- Willingness to work in open-air environments with exposure to different weather conditions
This is a physically demanding role that requires endurance, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Why Work at Plennegy Research?
- Opportunity to work within a respected agricultural research organisation
- Hands-on experience in seed production and plant development
- Exposure to advanced breeding techniques and greenhouse operations
- Stable, permanent employment in a professional working environment
- Market-related salary and opportunities for personal growth
How to Apply
Applicants who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply through the official Plennegy careers platform or follow the instructions provided in the original job advertisement.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.