Agricultural Data Scientist: Supply Chain Analytics Lead

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an Agricultural Data Scientist to strengthen supply chain optimization using big data from farm to market. You will develop predictive models for yields, demand, and inventory, integrate sensors, ERP, logistics, and market data, and present insights to stakeholders across the organization.

The role requires a strong background in statistics, machine learning, and agricultural value chains.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Economics, or related field.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R and SQL for data extraction.

Responsibilities

• Develop advanced analytical models to forecast yields, demand, and inventory.
• Analyze supply chain performance metrics to identify bottlenecks and improvements.
• Utilize machine learning algorithms to predict price fluctuations and sourcing strategies.
• Integrate data from farm sensors, ERP systems, logistics providers, and market intelligence platforms.
• Create data visualizations and dashboards to communicate insights to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with operations, procurement, and sales teams to implement data-driven strategies.
• Evaluate and recommend new data sources, tools, and technologies to enhance analytics.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security throughout the process.

Skills

Python or R

SQL

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Time series analysis

Big data

Cloud platforms

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

Agricultural Data Scientist - Supply Chain Optimization

Our client is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Data Scientist to enhance their supply chain operations. This position, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , will focus on leveraging big data to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize logistics from farm to market. You will work with diverse datasets, including production volumes, weather patterns, market prices, and transportation logs, to develop predictive models and actionable insights. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of statistical modeling, machine learning, and a deep understanding of agricultural value chains. This is a critical role for driving data-informed decision‑making within a leading agricultural enterprise.

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Data Scientist to enhance their supply chain operations. This position, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , will focus on leveraging big data to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize logistics from farm to market. You will work with diverse datasets, including production volumes, weather patterns, market prices, and transportation logs, to develop predictive models and actionable insights. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of statistical modeling, machine learning, and a deep understanding of agricultural value chains. This is a critical role for driving data-informed decision‑making within a leading agricultural enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced analytical models to forecast crop yields, predict market demand, and optimize inventory levels.
• Analyze supply chain performance metrics to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Utilize machine learning algorithms to predict price fluctuations, identify optimal sourcing strategies, and manage risk.
• Integrate data from various sources, including farm sensors, ERP systems, logistics providers, and market intelligence platforms.
• Create compelling data visualizations and dashboards to communicate insights to stakeholders at all levels.
• Collaborate with operations, procurement, and sales teams to implement data‑driven strategies.
• Evaluate and recommend new data sources, tools, and technologies to enhance supply chain analytics capabilities.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and security throughout the analytical process.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data science or advanced analytics, with a focus on supply chain or agricultural operations.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation.
• Strong knowledge of statistical modeling, machine learning techniques (regression, classification, clustering), and time series analysis.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with agricultural markets, supply chains, and related datasets.
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical‑thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities to convey complex findings to non‑technical audiences.

Benefits Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement contributions, and performance‑based bonuses. Employees benefit from extensive training opportunities and support for professional development. This role provides the chance to work