Agricultural Research Analyst

Frank Consult; Durban; On-site; ZAR 350 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organisation in the agricultural commodities sector is seeking an Agricultural Research Analyst to support strategic decision-making in Durban. The role involves collecting and analysing agricultural data, developing forecasting models, and conducting regional climate analyses. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, 5–7 years of experience, and strong analytical skills. This role offers a chance to contribute to commercial trading decisions and improve crop predictions.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (or equivalent).
• 5–7 years' experience in agricultural data analysis, forecasting, modelling, or research.
• Experience working with data visualisation platforms.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Collect, validate, and analyse agricultural data from various sources.
• Develop and maintain crop yield forecasting models.
• Conduct regional analyses on climate-related risks.
• Prepare reports on crop forecasts and trends.

Skills

Analytical skills

Statistical analysis (R, Python, SPSS)

Data visualisation

GIS software

Proficiency in MS Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Data Science, or related field

Tools

MS Excel

GIS software

Statistical analysis tools (R, Python, SPSS)

Job description

Our client, a leading organisation in the agricultural commodities sector, is seeking a highly analytical and detail‑oriented Agricultural Research Analyst to join their Stellenbosch team. This role plays a key part in supporting strategic decision‑making through accurate crop estimations, forecasting, and research into the impact of climate on crop production. The successful candidate will contribute to evidence‑based insights that improve crop prediction and support commercial trading decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, validate, and analyse agricultural data from field reports, satellite imagery, and weather stations.
• Develop and maintain crop yield forecasting models using historical and real‑time data.
• Conduct regional analyses, assessing climate‑related risks and their impact on agricultural performance.
• Integrate data from multiple sources to support predictive modelling for operational and trade decisions.
• Use statistical and machine‑learning tools to test, validate, and refine predictive models.
• Collaborate with traders, agronomists, climate specialists, and other internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare daily and weekly reports on crop forecasts, risks, and regional trends.
• Present insights and recommendations through reports, dashboards, and presentations for strategic planning.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (or equivalent).
• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Data Science, or a related field.
• 5–7 years’ experience in agricultural data analysis, forecasting, modelling, or research.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, GIS software, and statistical analysis tools (R, Python, SPSS).
• Experience working with data visualisation platforms.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel to field sites and industry events.

Personal Attributes

• Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills.
• Ability to translate complex data into practical commercial insights.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.
• Highly organised, deadline‑driven, and able to manage multiple projects.
• Comfortable working independently and within cross‑functional teams.