Agricultural Extension Officer - Farmer Support and Training

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and pension contributions

Professional development opportunities

Direct community impact

Stable salary

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Extension Officer to serve Soweto and nearby rural areas. The role connects research with practice, delivering practical advice, training, and farmer support to boost productivity and livelihoods in Gauteng.

Candidates should have a relevant degree, 2–3 years of extension experience, and strong communication skills to engage diverse farming communities. Field travel and driver’s license are required for this community-focused position.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience in agricultural extension or community development.
• Solid understanding of agronomy, crop science, and local farming practices.
• Excellent communication and facilitation skills with diverse communities.
• Ability to work independently and cover Soweto and surrounding areas.
• Proficiency in local languages is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical guidance on crop production, soil management, pests, and water conservation.
• Lead farmer trainings, workshops and field demonstrations.
• Assess farmer needs and develop tailored recommendations.
• Share information on new technologies, seeds, fertilizers, and market opportunities.
• Promote sustainable farming practices and improve farm management.
• Monitor activities and provide follow-up support for implementation.
• Collect data on productivity and adoption rates for program planning.
• Act as liaison between farmers, research institutions, and government departments.
• Encourage community-based projects and farmer cooperatives.
• Maintain accurate records of interactions, trainings and outcomes.

Skills

Agricultural extension

Community development

Training facilitation

Communication skills

Driver's license

Education

National Diploma or Bachelor's in Agriculture/Agricultural Extension

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a government-supported agricultural development agency focused on empowering local farmers, is seeking a dedicated Agricultural Extension Officer to serve the community of Soweto and its surrounding rural areas. This vital role involves bridging the gap between agricultural research and on-the-ground farming practices by providing farmers with practical advice, training, and support. The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of local farming techniques, crop cultivation, livestock management, and an ability to effectively communicate and build trust within farming communities. You will play a key part in enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability, and livelihoods in the Gauteng region, directly impacting farmers in and around Soweto .

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance and guidance to farmers on best practices in crop production, soil management, pest and disease control, and water conservation.
• Conduct farmer training sessions, workshops, and field demonstrations on various agricultural topics relevant to the local context.
• Assess the needs of individual farmers and farming communities, developing tailored recommendations and support plans.
• Facilitate access to information on new agricultural technologies, improved seed varieties, fertilizers, and market opportunities.
• Assist farmers in adopting sustainable farming practices and improving their overall farm management efficiency.
• Monitor farm activities and provide follow-up support to ensure the successful implementation of recommended practices.
• Collect data on farm productivity, challenges, and adoption rates of new technologies to inform program development.
• Act as a liaison between farmers, research institutions, and government agricultural departments.
• Promote community-based agricultural projects and farmer cooperatives to foster collaboration and collective action.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping of farmer interactions, training sessions, and project outcomes.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Extension, or a related field.
• A minimum of 2-3 years of experience in agricultural extension services, community development, or a similar advisory role.
• Solid understanding of agronomy, crop science, and farming practices relevant to the Gauteng region.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with farmers from diverse backgrounds.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support and empower farming communities.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively to cover assigned areas around Soweto .
• Basic understanding of farm economics and market access for agricultural produce.
• Proficiency in local languages is highly advantageous.
• A valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation are essential for field work.

Benefits

• A stable salary with potential for performance-related increments.
• Benefits package including medical aid and pension contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in agricultural extension methodologies.
• Direct engagement with farming communities and tangible impact on their livelihoods.
• A supportive work environment focused on agricultural upliftment.
• Exposure to various farming systems and challenges within the region.
• Contribution to food security and sustainable agriculture in Soweto and surrounding areas.