Agricultural Data Analyst & Systems Administrator

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hybrid work arrangement

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Agricultural Data Analyst & Systems Administrator in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role combines data analytics with IT systems management to support decision making and farm efficiency.

You will collect and analyze large datasets, develop dashboards, and maintain IT infrastructure, ensuring data integrity and secure access across the cooperative. A hybrid work model balances on-site duties with remote analysis responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field (Data Science/CS/IT/Agricultural Science).
• 4+ years in data analysis and IT systems administration, preferably in agriculture.
• Experience with R/Python/SQL/Excel for data processing and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and organize agricultural data from sensors, machinery, and records.
• Analyze data to identify trends, patterns, and insights for yields and efficiency.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and visualizations for management and farm members.
• Manage IT infrastructure, databases, and software; ensure data integrity and security.
• Provide user support for IT systems and data tools.

Skills

Data analysis

IT systems administration

Communication

Problem solving

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Data Science/CS/IT/Agricultural Science

Tools

Python

R

SQL

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural cooperative, is looking for a skilled Agricultural Data Analyst & Systems Administrator to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This dual-role position is critical for managing and interpreting the vast amounts of data generated by modern farming operations, as well as ensuring the smooth operation of their IT infrastructure. The successful candidate will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and reporting on agricultural data to support decision-making, improve efficiency, and drive innovation. Simultaneously, they will manage the cooperative's IT systems, databases, and software, ensuring data integrity and system accessibility. This is an exceptional opportunity for a technically proficient individual to make a significant impact on the efficiency and success of agricultural businesses in the heart of the Free State . The role offers a hybrid work model, balancing remote analysis with on-site system administration duties in Bloemfontein .

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and organize agricultural data from various sources (e.g., sensors, machinery, farm records).
• Analyze data to identify trends, patterns, and insights related to crop yields, resource usage, and operational efficiency.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and visualizations to communicate findings to management and farm members.
• Manage and maintain the cooperative's IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and workstations.
• Administer agricultural software platforms, databases, and data management systems.
• Ensure data security, integrity, and backup protocols are in place and followed.
• Provide technical support to users on IT systems and data-related tools.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand data needs and system requirements.
• Stay current with advancements in agricultural technology, data analytics, and IT systems.
• Assist in the implementation of new software and hardware solutions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, Agricultural Science with a strong IT focus, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in data analysis and IT systems administration, preferably within the agricultural sector.
• Proven ability to collect, process, and analyze large datasets using statistical software and tools (e.g., R, Python, SQL, Excel).
• Experience with database management and administration.
• Strong understanding of network infrastructure, server management, and IT security best practices.
• Familiarity with agricultural management software and precision farming technologies is a significant advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for user support and stakeholder engagement.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Bloemfontein, Free State area to fulfill on-site duties.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and skills.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Retirement savings plan contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• Exposure to cutting-edge agricultural technology and data management practices.
• A supportive team environment within a growing agricultural cooperative.