Senior Agricultural Chemist - Soil and Water Analysis

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 92,000 - 151,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Agricultural Chemist to join a laboratory team in Queenstown. The role focuses on soil, water and plant tissue analysis, delivering accurate results and practical nutrient recommendations to agricultural producers.

You will lead advanced chemical analyses (ICP-OES, AAS, GC, HPLC), develop and validate methods, mentor staff, ensure QC/QA compliance, and communicate findings to clients and agronomists in a hybrid lab/desk environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Agricultural Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Soil Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years hands-on experience in an agricultural laboratory setting.
• Experience with ICP-OES, AAS, GC, HPLC, and spectrophotometers.
• Strong QC/QA knowledge and report-writing skills.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced chemical analyses on soil, water, and plant tissue samples usingICP-OES, AAS, GC, HPLC, and spectrophotometry.
• Develop, validate, and implement new analytical methods for agricultural testing.
• Interpret analytical results and provide nutrient management recommendations.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Manage laboratory operations including QC/QA protocols and data management.
• Train and mentor junior staff; ensure safety compliance.
• Collaborate with agronomists and clients to understand analytical needs.
• Prepare detailed technical reports of findings and recommendations.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Soil science

Data analysis

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in Agricultural Chemistry or related field

Tools

ICP-OES

AAS

GC

HPLC

Spectrophotometry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural services company, is seeking a qualified and experienced Senior Agricultural Chemist to join their laboratory team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is vital for providing advanced analytical services related to soil, water, and plant tissue testing to support agricultural producers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in analytical chemistry, a deep understanding of soil science principles, and a commitment to delivering accurate and timely results. This position requires a meticulous approach, strong laboratory management skills, and the ability to interpret complex analytical data for practical agricultural applications.

Key Responsibilities

Perform advanced chemical analyses on soil, water, and plant tissue samples using various laboratory techniques and instrumentation (e.g., ICP-OES, AAS, spectrophotometry, titration). Develop, validate, and implement new analytical methods for agricultural testing. Interpret analytical results and provide clear, concise recommendations for nutrient management, soil amendment, and irrigation strategies. Oversee the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability of results. Manage laboratory operations, including sample flow, data management, quality control, and quality assurance (QC/QA) protocols. Train and mentor junior laboratory technicians and chemists. Ensure compliance with all relevant laboratory safety regulations and industry standards. Collaborate with agronomists, researchers, and clients to understand their analytical needs and provide technical support. Prepare detailed technical reports and summaries of analytical findings. Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory services and efficiency.

Requirements

A Master's degree in Agricultural Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Soil Science, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in an agricultural laboratory setting, performing chemical analyses. Proven expertise in a wide range of analytical techniques relevant to soil, water, and plant tissue analysis. Experience with laboratory instrumentation such as ICP-OES, AAS, GC, HPLC, and spectrophotometers. Strong understanding of soil chemistry, plant nutrition, and agronomic principles. Excellent knowledge of QC/QA procedures and laboratory accreditation standards. Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with strong report-writing skills. Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities. Good communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with clients and internal teams. Valid driver's license and ability to work occasional weekends if required by lab operations.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions. This hybrid role allows for a balance between in-lab work and remote data analysis/reporting. Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences and further training in advanced analytical techniques, are available. Join a dedicated team contributing to the advancement of sustainable agriculture in the Eastern Cape .