Senior Crop Protection Scientist

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Hybrid work

Conference participation

Relocation assistance

Paid holidays

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, South Africa, seeks a Senior Crop Protection Scientist to lead field and laboratory trials, develop IPM programs, and advance crop protection technologies. The role combines remote data analysis with on-site research, requiring collaboration with R&D, regulatory affairs, and agronomy teams.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or Agronomy, with 7+ years of crop protection experience and strong analytical and communication

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or Agronomy is required.
• Minimum 7 years of crop protection R&D experience.
• Experience designing efficacy trials for pesticides/biologicals.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute field/lab trials for crop protection products.
• Investigate pest, disease, and weed biology across crops.
• Develop and validate IPM strategies.
• Evaluate efficacy, safety and environmental impact of new solutions.

Skills

Entomology

Plant pathology

Weed science

Agronomy

Pesticide chemistry

Statistical analysis

Scientific writing

Education

Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or Agronomy

Tools

Statistical software (R/SAS)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in agricultural solutions, is seeking an experienced Senior Crop Protection Scientist to join their research team in **Randburg**, Gauteng. This role is pivotal in developing and implementing effective strategies for managing pests, diseases, and weeds that impact crop yields and quality. You will lead research initiatives, conduct field and laboratory trials, and contribute to the development of new crop protection products and integrated pest management (IPM) programs. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of entomology, plant pathology, weed science, and pesticide chemistry. This hybrid position allows for a balance of remote data analysis and report writing with on-site laboratory work and field trials. You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including plant breeders, agronomists, and regulatory affairs specialists. We are looking for a proactive scientist with strong analytical skills, a passion for sustainable agriculture, and a proven track record in crop protection research. Your insights will be critical in ensuring the health and productivity of crops, safeguarding food security, and promoting environmentally sound farming practices. The challenge lies in developing adaptable solutions to evolving agricultural threats in diverse environments. This role offers an exciting opportunity to influence the direction of crop protection technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and executing field and laboratory research trials for crop protection products.
• Investigating pest, disease, and weed biology and their impact on various crops.
• Developing and validating integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
• Evaluating the efficacy, safety, and environmental impact of new crop protection solutions.
• Analyzing trial data and preparing comprehensive research reports and recommendations.
• Collaborating with R&D, marketing, and regulatory teams to support product development and registration.
• Staying current with scientific advancements and regulatory changes in crop protection.
• Providing technical expertise and training to field staff and clients.
• Contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices.
• Managing budgets and resources for research projects.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in crop protection research and development.
• Proven experience in designing and conducting efficacy trials for pesticides and biological control agents.
• Strong knowledge of pesticide modes of action, toxicology, and environmental fate.
• Expertise in statistical analysis of experimental data and use of relevant software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid work setting.
• Experience with laboratory techniques and field research methodologies.
• Familiarity with South African agricultural practices and pest/disease challenges.
• Commitment to innovation and sustainable agriculture.

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to R per annum.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement fund with company contribution.
• Hybrid work arrangement providing flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional growth and conference participation.
• Access to well-equipped laboratories and field research stations.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
• Work on cutting-edge crop protection technologies.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Employee assistance program.