Agricultural Data Scientist - Farm Optimization

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Relocation assistance may be available

Continuous learning and development

Flexible work schedule

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks an Agricultural Data Scientist to drive farm optimization through advanced data analytics. You will collect, process, and analyze data from sensors, weather stations, satellites, and management software to inform crop planning and resource decisions.

The role requires a strong background in data science, ML, and statistics, plus collaboration with agronomists and engineers to translate insights into actionable strategies for sustainable farming.

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in a quantitative field relevant to data science.
• Strong background applying analytics to agricultural challenges.
• Experience with Python or R and common data libraries.

Responsibilities

• Develop data-driven models to predict crop yields and forecast risks.
• Analyze data from IoT sensors, drones, and satellite imagery to monitor crop health.
• Design experiments to validate models and collect new data.
• Apply ML algorithms for anomaly detection, clustering, and predictive maintenance.
• Create dashboards to communicate insights to non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate models into farm platforms.
• Identify opportunities to improve resource efficiency (water, fertilizer, energy).
• Stay updated on agricultural tech and ML advancements relevant to farming.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to farm managers and agronomists.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and security across analyses.

Skills

Data science

Machine learning

Experimental design

Statistical thinking

Communication

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Engineering, or related quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

SQL

NoSQL

Hadoop

Spark

GIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly analytical and innovative Agricultural Data Scientist to join their expanding team in Bloemfontein . This role is central to harnessing the power of data to drive farm optimization and improve agricultural productivity. You will be responsible for collecting, processing, and analyzing vast datasets generated from various sources, including sensors, weather stations, satellite imagery, and farm management software. The insights derived from your work will inform critical decisions related to crop planning, resource allocation, yield forecasting, and risk management. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in data science, machine learning, and statistical modeling, combined with a solid understanding of agricultural principles. You will collaborate closely with agronomists, farm managers, and other stakeholders to translate complex data into actionable strategies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and profitability across agricultural operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to leverage advanced analytical techniques to shape the future of farming.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement data-driven models to predict crop yields, identify optimal planting times, and forecast potential risks.
• Analyze large datasets from IoT sensors, drones, and satellite imagery to monitor crop health and environmental conditions.
• Design and execute experiments to validate predictive models and gather new data.
• Utilize machine learning algorithms for tasks such as anomaly detection, clustering, and predictive maintenance of farm equipment.
• Develop dashboards and visualization tools to communicate complex data insights to non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate analytical models into farm management platforms.
• Identify opportunities for improving resource efficiency (water, fertilizer, energy) through data analysis.
• Stay abreast of advancements in agricultural technology, data science, and machine learning relevant to farming.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to farm managers and agronomists to optimize operational decisions.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and security across all analytical processes.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in data science, with a significant focus on applying advanced analytical techniques to agricultural challenges.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow).
• Strong understanding of machine learning concepts, statistical modeling, and experimental design.
• Experience with database management (SQL, NoSQL) and big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark).
• Familiarity with GIS software and remote sensing data analysis is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain technical findings to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in Bloemfontein .
• A passion for agriculture and leveraging technology to improve its sustainability and efficiency.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge agricultural technology and data platforms.
• Continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• Contribution to impactful projects that enhance food production and sustainability.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Bloemfontein .
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Generous annual leave and paid holidays.
• Flexible work schedule when possible.