Remote Plant Pathology Consultant

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 124,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Remote Plant Pathology Consultant to diagnose and manage crop diseases for agricultural producers across South Africa. Working from home, you will identify diseases, recommend management strategies, and communicate complex science clearly to growers.

You will develop training materials and webinars, stay current on emerging diseases, and contribute to research while supporting diverse crops nationwide. This is a fully remote role with meaningful impact.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Virology, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in plant disease diagnosis and management.
• Deep knowledge of major plant pathogens affecting key South African crops.
• Experience with laboratory diagnostic techniques and interpretation of results.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases from samples, images, and descriptions.
• Recommend disease management strategies (chemical, biological, cultural).
• Develop training materials and webinars for agricultural professionals.
• Stay updated on emerging plant diseases and SA relevance.
• Consult with clients via virtual meetings to discuss diagnoses and plans.
• Contribute to research and knowledge sharing in plant pathology.

Skills

Plant pathology

Diagnostics

Scientific communication

Virtual collaboration

Education

PhD in Plant Pathology

Master's in Plant Pathology

Tools

Laboratory diagnostics

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Remote Plant Pathology Consultant to provide expert advice and diagnostic services to agricultural producers across South Africa. Working from home, you will play a crucial role in identifying, diagnosing, and managing plant diseases that affect crop health and yield. This position requires a deep understanding of phytopathology, integrated pest management strategies, and the ability to communicate complex scientific information effectively to growers. This is an excellent opportunity for a plant health specialist to leverage their expertise remotely and contribute to safeguarding agricultural productivity nationwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose plant diseases based on submitted samples, images, and detailed descriptions from clients.
• Provide recommendations for disease management strategies, including chemical, biological, and cultural control methods.
• Develop and deliver training materials and webinars on plant disease identification and management for agricultural professionals.
• Stay abreast of emerging plant diseases and management techniques relevant to South African agriculture.
• Consult with clients via virtual meetings to discuss diagnoses and management plans.
• Contribute to research and knowledge sharing within the plant pathology community.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Plant Pathology, Mycology, Virology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in plant disease diagnosis and management.
• In-depth knowledge of major plant pathogens affecting important South African crops.
• Experience with laboratory diagnostic techniques and interpretation of results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
• Proficiency in using virtual communication and collaboration tools.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package with performance-based incentives.
• Fully remote position offering significant flexibility.
• Opportunity to work with a diverse range of crops and clients across South Africa.
• Continuous learning opportunities through case studies and scientific literature.
• Contribute to national food security and agricultural sustainability.