Agricultural Economist - Remote Market Analysis

Placements24; Paarl; Remote; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development opportunities

Paid annual leave

Career advancement potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Economist to join our client in Paarl, Western Cape. The role centers on market analysis, economic forecasting, and strategic insights for stakeholders in agriculture.

You will develop econometric models, analyze crop markets, advise on policy impacts, and present findings to farm businesses, industry bodies, and policymakers. This position is based in Paarl and offers a stimulating, impact-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in a quantitative field is required.
• Minimum 5 years in agricultural economics, market analysis, or economic consulting.
• Strong quantitative/analytical skills with econometric modeling.
• Proficiency in Stata, R or EViews.
• Understanding of agricultural markets and international trade.

Responsibilities

• Conduct economic analyses of agricultural markets, forecasting and trade flows.
• Develop models to forecast commodity prices and production trends.
• Analyze the impact of policies, regulations, and international trade deals on agriculture.
• Prepare reports, white papers, and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Provide economic consultancy to farms, agribusinesses, and industry groups.
• Monitor key economic indicators relevant to agriculture.
• Research topics in agricultural finance, risk management, and value chains.
• Collaborate with agronomy and market intelligence for integrated insights.
• Present findings at industry conferences and client meetings.
• Stay updated on economic theories and market developments.

Skills

Econometrics

Stata/R/EViews

Data analysis

Report writing

Presentation skills

Independent work

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics / Economics / Finance

Tools

Stata

R

EViews

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research and advisory firm, is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Economist to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape . This role is crucial for providing in-depth market analysis, economic forecasting, and strategic insights to stakeholders within the agricultural sector. You will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting economic data related to crop production, commodity prices, trade policies, and market trends. The ideal candidate possesses a strong quantitative background, excellent research skills, and a thorough understanding of the agricultural economy, both locally and globally. This position requires an individual who can translate complex economic models into clear, actionable recommendations for businesses, policymakers, and industry associations. You will contribute to informed decision-making that drives efficiency, profitability, and sustainability within the agricultural value chain. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact on the agricultural landscape of the Western Cape and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive economic analyses of agricultural markets, including supply and demand dynamics, price forecasting, and trade flows.
• Develop and maintain economic models to forecast agricultural commodity prices and production trends.
• Analyze the impact of government policies, regulations, and international trade agreements on the agricultural sector.
• Prepare detailed reports, white papers, and presentations on agricultural economic issues for diverse audiences.
• Provide economic consultancy services to clients, including farm businesses, agribusinesses, and industry organizations.
• Monitor and report on key economic indicators relevant to the agricultural industry.
• Conduct research on topics such as agricultural finance, risk management, and value chain analysis.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as agronomy and market intelligence, to provide integrated insights.
• Present findings and recommendations at industry conferences and client meetings.
• Stay updated on the latest economic theories, research methodologies, and agricultural market developments.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural economics, market analysis, or economic consulting.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with expertise in econometric modeling and statistical software (e.g., Stata, R, EViews).
• In-depth knowledge of agricultural markets, commodity trading, and international trade.
• Excellent research, report writing, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in data management and analysis tools.
• Understanding of agricultural production systems and value chains.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple research projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape of South Africa is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This position is based in the scenic town of Paarl, Western Cape , offering a desirable work environment.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending economic conferences and advanced training programs.
• A stimulating work environment with a team of experts in agricultural economics and market intelligence.
• Contribution to impactful research and policy advice within the agricultural sector.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Potential for career advancement within a reputable research and advisory firm.
• Be part of shaping the future of agriculture through economic insight.