Agricultural Extension Officer

Placements24; Lorenziberg; On-site; EUR 19,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Travel allowances

Vehicle maintenance support

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Extension Officer to serve farming communities in the Eastern Cape region. The role involves delivering technical advice, training, and support on sustainable farming methods, crop and livestock management, and market access.

You will bridge researchers and farmers, guiding adoption of improved technologies and improving livelihoods. The ideal candidate has a degree in agriculture or related field, at least 2 years in extension services, and strong

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Extension, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years in agricultural extension services, farm advisory, or related role.
• Strong knowledge of local agricultural conditions, crops, and livestock relevant to the Eastern Cape.
• Solid understanding of agronomic principles, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills; able to engage diverse farmers.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical advice and training to farmers on crop production, livestock management, and soil conservation.
• Conduct regular field visits to assess needs, monitor progress, and provide guidance.
• Organize and facilitate workshops, field days, and farmer training sessions.
• Disseminate information on new agricultural technologies, best practices, government programs, and market opportunities.
• Assist farmers in developing farm management plans and improving operational efficiency.
• Facilitate farmer group formation and support collective action initiatives.
• Collect data on farming practices, yields, and challenges; liaise with researchers and government bodies.
• Promote adoption of sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices.
• Respond to inquiries and provide practical solutions; prepare reports on activities.

Skills

Agronomy knowledge

Farm advisory

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Travel readiness

Education

Degree in Agriculture/Agronomy/Agricultural Extension

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an organization dedicated to advancing agricultural practices and supporting rural communities, is seeking a motivated Agricultural Extension Officer to serve the farming community in and around Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This vital role involves providing farmers with technical advice, training, and support on modern agricultural techniques, sustainable practices, and market access. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of agronomy, crop science, and livestock management, coupled with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will act as a crucial link between research institutions and farmers, facilitating the adoption of improved technologies and practices. This position requires a passion for agriculture and a commitment to empowering farmers to enhance their productivity and livelihoods. You will conduct field visits, organize workshops, and disseminate relevant agricultural information. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying farmer needs and providing practical, evidence-based solutions. It's an opportunity to make a direct and positive impact on agricultural development in the region. The focus is on building strong relationships with farmers and understanding their unique challenges and opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical advice and training to farmers on various aspects of crop production, livestock management, and soil conservation.
• Conduct regular field visits to farms to assess needs, monitor progress, and provide guidance.
• Organize and facilitate workshops, field days, and farmer training sessions on relevant agricultural topics.
• Disseminate information on new agricultural technologies, best practices, government programs, and market opportunities.
• Assist farmers in developing farm management plans and improving their operational efficiency.
• Facilitate farmer group formation and support their collective action initiatives.
• Collect data on farming practices, crop yields, and challenges faced by farmers in the region.
• Liaise with agricultural research institutions, government departments, and other stakeholders to access and share knowledge.
• Promote the adoption of sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices.
• Respond to farmer inquiries and provide solutions to agricultural problems.
• Prepare reports on extension activities, farmer feedback, and agricultural trends in the area.
• Contribute to the development of extension materials and resources.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Extension, or a related field.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in agricultural extension services, farm advisory, or a related role.
• Good knowledge of local agricultural conditions, crops, and livestock relevant to the Eastern Cape.
• Strong understanding of agronomic principles, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with farmers from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively, including frequent travel within the region.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., "MS Office Suite").
• A valid driver's license and a willingness to travel extensively.
• Problem-solving skills and a practical, hands‑on approach.
• Passion for community development and empowering farmers.
• Ability to work collaboratively with different stakeholders.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund.
• This role provides invaluable field experience and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in agricultural communities.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in specialized agricultural areas are available.
• Travel allowances and support for maintaining a vehicle are provided.
• You will work within a supportive organizational structure focused on rural development.
• The position offers stability and the chance to build long‑term relationships within the farming sector.
• Join an organization committed to sustainable agriculture and community empowerment.