Agricultural Extension Officer - Crop Improvement Programs

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel allowances

Medical aid

Provident fund

Training and development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Agricultural Extension Officer to support farmers in the Paarl region by promoting improved crops and sustainable farming methods. You will connect research with the farming community, delivering practical advice, training, and on-field demonstrations.

The role requires strong communication, agronomy knowledge, and a passion for rural development, with frequent travel across the Western Cape to engage farmers in their fields and gather feedback for program success.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Crop Science, or related field.
• 3+ years experience in agricultural extension, advisory services, or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of crop production, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills with diverse farming communities.
• Proficiency in local languages is advantageous; valid driver’s license is essential.

Responsibilities

• Disseminate knowledge on improved crop varieties, cultivation techniques, and pest management to farmers.
• Conduct practical training sessions, workshops, and field demonstrations.
• Assess needs of local farmers and tailor advisory services accordingly.
• Facilitate farmer group meetings and encourage exchange of knowledge.
• Monitor adoption and impact of technologies; collect feedback to inform R&D.

Skills

Communication

Agronomy knowledge

Facilitation

Data collection

Travel willingness

Education

Diploma/Degree in Agriculture or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key agricultural development organization operating in the Paarl region, is seeking a dedicated Agricultural Extension Officer. This role is vital in facilitating the adoption of improved agricultural technologies and practices among local farmers, with a focus on crop enhancement and sustainable farming methods. You will serve as a crucial link between research institutions and the farming community, providing practical advice, training, and support. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, a solid understanding of agronomy, and a passion for empowering farmers. This position requires frequent travel within the Western Cape to engage directly with farmers in their fields.

Key Responsibilities

• Disseminate knowledge on improved crop varieties, cultivation techniques, and pest/disease management strategies to farmers.


• Conduct practical training sessions, workshops, and field demonstrations for farming communities.


• Assess the specific needs and challenges of local farmers and tailor advice accordingly.


• Facilitate farmer group meetings and encourage the exchange of knowledge and best practices.


• Monitor the adoption and impact of recommended technologies and practices.


• Collect feedback from farmers to inform research and development efforts.


• Promote sustainable agricultural practices, including water conservation and soil health management.


• Assist farmers in accessing relevant resources, inputs, and government support programs.


• Prepare regular reports on extension activities, farmer engagement, and program outcomes.


• Collaborate with other agricultural stakeholders, including researchers, NGOs, and government agencies.

Requirements

• A relevant Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Crop Science, or a related field.


• A minimum of 3 years of experience in agricultural extension, advisory services, or a similar role.


• Strong knowledge of crop production, soil science, and integrated pest management.


• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills, with the ability to connect with diverse farming communities.


• Proficiency in local languages is highly advantageous.


• Ability to work independently and travel extensively within the Paarl and surrounding areas.


• Basic understanding of data collection and reporting.


• A valid driver's license is essential.


• Passion for rural development and empowering agricultural communities.


• Familiarity with local farming practices and challenges in the Western Cape is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive starting salary, appropriate for the level of experience and qualifications, along with travel allowances for field activities.


• This role provides the rewarding opportunity to directly contribute to the livelihoods of farmers in the Western Cape.


• You will gain extensive field experience and work within a supportive team dedicated to agricultural advancement.


• Benefits include contributions to a medical aid scheme and participation in a provident fund.


• Opportunities for further training and professional development in agricultural extension techniques are provided.


• This is a chance to make a tangible difference in the agricultural sector of Paarl.