Field Crop Protection Specialist – Eastern Cape

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

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.