Soil Scientist - Precision Agriculture

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 51,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Fully remote

Cutting-edge precision agriculture

Sustainable farming practices

Professional development

Innovative company culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Soil Scientist specialising in precision agriculture to work remotely with a team of agronomists and technologists. You will analyse soil data, develop variable rate maps, and advise farmers on fertility and soil health management from your home office.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Soil Science with 5+ years of experience, strong GIS and data-analysis skills, and the ability to work independently across projects.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years in soil science with precision agriculture and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of soil chemistry, physics and biology, fertility management.
• Proficiency with GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and remote sensing data.
• Experience with data analysis tools (R, Python, SAS).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze soil data from tests, sensors, and remote sensing imagery.
• Develop site-specific soil management and nutrient plans.
• Design variable rate maps for fertilizers, pesticides, inputs.
• Use GIS/remote sensing to assess soil properties and crop health.
• Provide expert advice to farmers and agronomists on soil health.
• Collaborate with tech providers to integrate soil-monitoring tools.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science and precision ag.
• Prepare reports and presentations for clients and teams.
• Assist in algorithm validation for soil analysis and prediction.
• Promote sustainable soil management to boost productivity.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Independent work

GIS proficiency

Programming (R/Python)

Education

Master's or PhD in Soil Science

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Remote sensing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural solutions provider, is seeking a talented Soil Scientist specialising in precision agriculture to join their fully remote team. You will be instrumental in leveraging data and technology to optimise soil management practices, improve crop health, and enhance farm sustainability. This role involves analysing soil data, developing variable rate application strategies, and advising clients on the best approaches to soil fertility and health management. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in soil science, coupled with expertise in GIS, remote sensing, and data analysis tools relevant to precision farming. You will work closely with a dedicated team of agronomists and technologists to deliver innovative, data-driven solutions to farmers across South Africa. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of efficient and environmentally sound agricultural practices from the convenience of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze soil data from various sources, including soil testing, sensor readings, and remote sensing imagery.
• Develop and implement site-specific soil management plans, including fertilisation and nutrient management strategies.
• Design and recommend variable rate application maps for fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs.
• Utilise GIS and remote sensing technologies to assess soil properties, crop health, and identify management zones.
• Provide expert advice to farmers and agricultural advisors on soil health, fertility, and crop nutrition.
• Collaborate with technology providers to integrate new soil monitoring and management tools.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science, precision agriculture, and related technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, recommendations, and presentations for clients and internal teams.
• Assist in the development and validation of algorithms for soil analysis and prediction.
• Promote sustainable soil management practices to improve long-term farm productivity and environmental stewardship.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in soil science, with a specific focus on precision agriculture and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of soil chemistry, physics, and biology, with expertise in soil fertility management.
• Proficiency in using GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and experience with remote sensing data.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical software (e.g., R, Python, SAS) is required.
• Familiarity with agricultural sensors, soil sampling techniques, and variable rate technology.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Knowledge of South African soil types and agricultural practices is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge precision agriculture technologies.
• Contribute to sustainable farming practices and improved resource management.
• Professional development and ongoing training opportunities.
• Be part of an innovative company shaping the future of agriculture.