Crop Protection Specialist - Eastern Cape Region

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Company vehicle and travel allowance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Crop Protection Specialist to serve farming communities around Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will provide technical recommendations on IPM, crop protection products, and application technologies, backed by a strong foundation in plant pathology, entomology, and agronomy.

You will conduct field scouting, diagnose crop issues, develop protection plans, educate farmers, and collaborate with researchers and suppliers.

Qualifications

• Degree in Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Entomology, or related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in crop protection or advisory roles.
• Strong knowledge of pests, diseases, and weeds affecting agricultural production in South Africa.
• Understanding IPM principles and sustainable crop protection strategies.
• Familiarity with crop protection products and their safe, effective use.
• Excellent diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for farmer advisory.
• Knowledge of the agricultural landscape and Eastern Cape region challenges.
• Ability to work independently and travel within the designated area.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the designated area.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular field scouting to identify pests, diseases, and weed problems in crops.
• Develop and recommend IPM strategies emphasizing sustainable practices.
• Provide expert advice on selection, application, and safety of crop protection products.
• Educate farmers on proper application techniques, calibration, and regulatory compliance.
• Monitor efficacy of protection programs and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Stay updated on crop protection developments, new products, and resistance management.
• Collect data on pest incidence, disease outbreaks, and weed pressure.
• Build strong relationships with farmers and provide ongoing technical support.
• Organize farmer training sessions and workshops on crop protection topics.
• Liaise with research institutions and suppliers on product innovations.

Skills

Field scouting

Diagnostic skills

Advisory skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Degree in Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Entomology, or related agricultural science field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major agricultural input supplier and service provider, is seeking a dedicated Crop Protection Specialist to serve the farming communities in and around Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is essential for helping farmers manage pests, diseases, and weeds effectively to ensure optimal crop yields and quality. The specialist will provide technical expertise and recommendations on the appropriate use of crop protection products, integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, and application technologies. You will conduct field scouting, diagnose crop issues, and develop customized protection plans for a variety of crops relevant to the region. This position requires a strong foundation in plant pathology, entomology, weed science, and agronomy, coupled with excellent communication and advisory skills. We are looking for a proactive individual who can build strong relationships with farmers and contribute to sustainable and profitable agricultural production in the Eastern Cape . Your advice will directly impact the success and sustainability of local farming operations, ensuring they can effectively protect their valuable crops.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct regular field scouting to identify and diagnose pests, diseases, and weed problems in various crops.
• Develop and recommend integrated pest and disease management (IPM) strategies, emphasizing sustainable and environmentally sound practices.
• Provide expert advice on the selection, application, and safety of crop protection products (pesticides, fungicides, herbicides).
• Educate farmers on proper application techniques, calibration of equipment, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Monitor the efficacy of crop protection programs and adjust strategies as needed.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in crop protection science, new product introductions, and pest resistance management.
• Collect data on pest incidence, disease outbreaks, and weed pressure in the region.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with farmers, providing ongoing technical support and advice.
• Organize and conduct farmer training sessions and workshops on crop protection topics.
• Liaise with research institutions and suppliers to stay informed about product innovations and research findings.

Requirements

• Degree in Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Entomology, or a related agricultural science field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in crop protection, agricultural extension, or a similar advisory role.
• Strong knowledge of common crop pests, diseases, and weeds affecting agricultural production in South Africa.
• Understanding of IPM principles and sustainable crop protection strategies.
• Familiarity with various crop protection products and their safe, effective use.
• Excellent diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively advise farmers.
• Knowledge of the agricultural landscape and specific challenges in the Eastern Cape region is essential.
• Ability to work independently and manage a field-based territory.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the designated area.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting experience and expertise.
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for travel.
• Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
• The chance to make a direct impact on agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.
• Supportive team environment and access to a wide range of agricultural products and services.