Soil Scientist - Agricultural Research

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 56,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development

Hybrid work

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, South Africa, is seeking a knowledgeable Soil Scientist to join our client’s agricultural research team. This hybrid role combines field data collection with laboratory analysis to improve soil health, fertility management, and sustainable farming practices.

You will apply soil physics, chemistry and biology to interpret data, write technical recommendations, and collaborate with agronomists, farmers and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in soil science research or agricultural consulting.
• Proficiency in soil analysis techniques and interpretation of laboratory results.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field and laboratory research on soil properties (nutrient content, texture, pH, organic matter).
• Analyze soil samples to assess fertility and diagnose problems.
• Develop and evaluate soil management strategies (fertilization, cover crops, tillage).
• Monitor soil health indicators and assess impacts of practices on degradation and conservation.
• Collaborate with farmers and advisors to implement improved soil management techniques.
• Interpret complex soil data and provide actionable recommendations.
• Prepare detailed research reports and technical bulletins.
• Stay abreast of soil science and sustainable land management developments.
• Maintain thorough records of research activities and findings.

Skills

Soil science

Soil analysis

Data interpretation

Report writing

Field work

Education

Master's or PhD in Soil Science / related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research organization, is seeking a knowledgeable Soil Scientist to join their team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This hybrid role is focused on understanding and improving soil health for enhanced agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. You will conduct research on soil physics, chemistry, and biology, analyzing soil samples, interpreting data, and developing recommendations for soil management practices. The position involves both field-based data collection and laboratory analysis, as well as remote data interpretation and report writing. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background in soil science or a related discipline, with a passion for applying this knowledge to real-world agricultural challenges. You will collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and other stakeholders to promote soil conservation and fertility management, contributing to the long-term health of agricultural lands. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on agricultural practices through scientific inquiry and practical application.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field and laboratory research on soil properties, including nutrient content, texture, structure, pH, and organic matter.
• Analyze soil samples to assess fertility, identify deficiencies or toxicities, and diagnose problems.
• Develop and evaluate soil management strategies, including fertilization programs, cover cropping, and tillage practices.
• Monitor soil health indicators and assess the impact of agricultural practices on soil degradation and conservation.
• Collaborate with farmers and agricultural advisors to implement improved soil management techniques.
• Interpret complex soil data and provide clear, actionable recommendations to stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed research reports, scientific publications, and technical bulletins.
• Stay abreast of advancements in soil science, agronomy, and sustainable land management.
• Maintain accurate records of research activities, findings, and recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in soil science research or agricultural consulting, with a strong understanding of soil health principles.
• Proficiency in soil analysis techniques and interpretation of laboratory results.
• Experience with soil sampling methodologies and field data collection.
• Knowledge of soil chemistry, physics, and biology.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and their impact on soil ecosystems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a hybrid environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and opportunities for professional development. This hybrid position provides flexibility, allowing for both on-site research and remote data analysis. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and field research sites. Join a dedicated team focused on advancing sustainable agriculture and contributing to the health of our natural resources. We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.