Senior Agronomist - Soil Health & Sustainability

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement annuity

Paid leave

Hybrid work model

Training & development

Job summary

Placements24 is partnered with a forward-thinking agricultural consultancy seeking a Senior Agronomist specializing in Soil Health and Sustainability. Based in Welkom, Free State, this hybrid role combines on-site client consultations and field assessments with remote data analysis and reporting.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s or PhD in agronomy or related field and at least six years of experience, with proven expertise in soil fertility, water management, and sustainable farming

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 6+ years of professional experience in agronomy with a focus on soil health and sustainable farming.
• Strong knowledge of soil science, fertility management, plant physiology, and crop production.
• Proven experience designing and implementing soil conservation strategies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret soil and crop data.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills; able to train and present to diverse stakeholders.
• Willingness to travel for client visits and fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct soil analyses and field assessments to evaluate soil health and fertility.
• Develop and implement soil management plans, including crop rotation and nutrient strategies.
• Advise clients on sustainable farming techniques to improve water use and biodiversity.
• Monitor outcomes and report on soil health, yields, and environmental impact.
• Prepare client reports and presentations detailing findings and progress.
• Collaborate with researchers and industry stakeholders to promote best practices.
• Provide training and workshops for farmers on soil health principles.
• Contribute to new sustainable agriculture programs and services.

Skills

Soil health

Data analysis

Agronomy

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's/PhD in Agronomy/Soil Science/Environmental Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural consultancy, is seeking an experienced Senior Agronomist specializing in Soil Health and Sustainability. This vital role will be based in Welkom, Free State, offering a hybrid work model that combines essential on-site client consultations and field assessments with remote data analysis and reporting. The successful candidate will be passionate about promoting environmentally sound and economically viable farming practices, focusing on improving soil fertility, water management, and overall farm resilience. You will work closely with a diverse range of agricultural producers, providing expert advice and developing tailored strategies to enhance their operations sustainably.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil analyses and field assessments to evaluate soil health, fertility, and structure.
• Develop and implement customized soil management plans, including recommendations for crop rotation, cover cropping, nutrient management, and soil conservation practices.
• Advise clients on sustainable farming techniques to improve water use efficiency, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity.
• Monitor the impact of implemented strategies on soil health, crop yields, and environmental outcomes.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and innovations in soil science, agronomy, and sustainable agriculture.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for clients, outlining findings, recommendations, and progress.
• Collaborate with other agricultural professionals, researchers, and industry stakeholders to promote best practices.
• Provide training and workshops to farmers and agricultural advisors on soil health principles and sustainable practices.
• Assist in the development of new sustainable agriculture programs and services offered by the consultancy.
• Ensure adherence to environmental regulations and promote responsible land stewardship among client.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in agronomy, with a strong focus on soil health and sustainable farming systems.
• In-depth knowledge of soil science, fertility management, plant physiology, and crop production.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing soil conservation and improvement strategies.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex soil and crop data.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients.
• Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis, farm management, and reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a hybrid environment.
• Familiarity with the agricultural challenges and opportunities in the Free State region is highly desirable.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel for client visits and field work.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, complemented by performance incentives and opportunities for professional growth. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, a retirement annuity, and ample paid leave. Employees have access to advanced analytical tools and continuous training. This hybrid role provides a balance between remote flexibility and essential client interaction. We are committed to fostering a sustainable agricultural future and offer a stimulating work environment. Join our team and make a lasting impact on land management and farming practices in the region.