Agricultural Data Scientist

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Hybrid work

Cutting-edge projects

R&D environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Data Scientist to join a hybrid team in Stellenbosch. The role focuses on turning large agricultural datasets into actionable insights for crop optimization and resource management.

You will build predictive models, validate hypotheses, and communicate findings to farmers and stakeholders, driving smarter farming decisions through advanced analytics.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Science with a strong quantitative focus.
• Proven experience in data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning techniques.
• Proficiency in Python or R, and experience with SQL databases.
• Familiarity with agricultural data sources is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in Stellenbosch.

Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and analyze large datasets related to crop yields, weather patterns, soil conditions, and market trends.
• Develop and implement predictive models for crop forecasting, disease detection, and resource optimization using machine learning algorithms.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate model performance and agricultural hypotheses.
• Visualize data and communicate complex findings effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate with agronomists, researchers, and field teams to integrate data-driven insights into practical farming solutions.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Python or R

SQL

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Agricultural Science

Tools

Python

R

SQL databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly analytical Agricultural Data Scientist to join their innovative team based in Stellenbosch. This hybrid role focuses on harnessing the power of data to drive decision-making in agricultural practices, from crop optimization to resource management. You will work with large datasets, develop predictive models, and translate complex findings into actionable insights for farmers and stakeholders. This position offers a unique opportunity to blend your expertise in data science with a passion for agriculture and sustainability, contributing to the future of farming through advanced analytics.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, clean, and analyze large datasets related to crop yields, weather patterns, soil conditions, and market trends.
• Develop and implement predictive models for crop forecasting, disease detection, and resource optimization using machine learning algorithms.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate model performance and agricultural hypotheses.
• Visualize data and communicate complex findings effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborate with agronomists, researchers, and field teams to integrate data-driven insights into practical farming solutions.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Science with a strong quantitative focus, or a related field.
• Proven experience in data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning techniques.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with SQL databases.
• Familiarity with agricultural data sources and challenges is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment in Stellenbosch.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge agricultural technology projects.
• A stimulating and collaborative research and development environment.