Job Title: Plant Health & Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Manager – Date Palm

Location: Abu Dhabi / Al Ain / Al Dhafra, UAE

Salary: AED 12,000 per month

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Plant Health & Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Manager to oversee the health and protection of date palm plantations. The role focuses on implementing effective pest control strategies, ensuring plant health, and maintaining high-quality date production that meets food safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement annual preventive and curative pest management plans aligned with agricultural seasons and pest life cycles.

Field Monitoring & Diagnosis

• Conduct regular field inspections for early detection of infestations, particularly Red Palm Weevil and other date fruit pests.

Chemical Operations Management

• Select appropriate pesticides and calculate accurate dosages.
• Supervise spraying, injection, and dusting operations to ensure effective treatment.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Implement and manage IPM programs including pheromone trapping systems, biological control methods, and preventive agricultural practices.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to pesticide Pre-Harvest Intervals (PHI) to maintain food safety and prevent harmful chemical residues in harvested dates.

Inventory & Safety

• Oversee pesticide storage facilities and spraying equipment.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.

Technical Reporting

• Prepare regular technical reports covering infestation levels, treatment effectiveness, and recommendations for farm improvement.

Skills

Qualifications & Requirements

• PhD in Agricultural Engineering, Plant Protection, Entomology, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience managing date palm pests (preferably in the Gulf region or North Africa).
• Strong knowledge of modern pesticides, hydraulic injection techniques, and acoustic pest detection technologies.
• Valid UAE Driving License is required.
• Must be willing to work in any location within Abu Dhabi, including Al Ain and Al Dhafra.

Key Competencies

• Strong observational and analytical skills to detect early infestation symptoms.
• Ability to work in field conditions under varying climates.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to train and supervise agricultural teams.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Maintain Red Palm Weevil infestation below 1% annually.
• Optimize pesticide usage and improve cost efficiency.
• Ensure zero pesticide residues exceeding permissible limits in laboratory testing.