Agricultural Scientist - Soil and Water Management

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, a leader in agricultural research, seeks an accomplished Agricultural Scientist specializing in Soil and Water Management. You will conduct cutting-edge studies to optimize soil health and water-use efficiency in South Africa's farming systems.

This role combines field and laboratory research, data analysis, and the development of practical guidelines for sustainable soil and water management in the Free State, with opportunities for collaboration with farmers and

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Soil Science or related field.
• 5+ years of research in soil and water management in agriculture.
• Strong knowledge of soil physics, chemistry, biology and hydrology.
• Experience with data analysis and scientific writing.
• GIS and remote sensing familiarity is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on soil properties, fertility, and health, and their impact on crop production.
• Develop and evaluate water management strategies, including irrigation techniques and water conservation methods.
• Analyze soil and water samples to assess quality, nutrient levels, and potential contaminants.
• Investigate and recommend soil amendment practices to improve soil structure and fertility.
• Model and predict the effects of land use practices on soil and water resources.
• Develop guidelines and best practices for sustainable agriculture, focusing on soil and water conservation.
• Collaborate with farmers, extension officers, and other stakeholders to disseminate research findings and provide technical support.
• Design and manage field experiments and laboratory studies.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in soil science, hydrology, and sustainable land management.

Skills

Soil science

Hydrology

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Soil Science or related

Tools

GIS

Remote sensing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in agricultural research and development based in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking an accomplished Agricultural Scientist specializing in Soil and Water Management. This role is critical for advancing sustainable agricultural practices by optimizing the use of soil and water resources. The successful candidate will conduct research, provide expert advice, and develop innovative solutions to enhance soil health, improve water-use efficiency, and mitigate environmental impacts in agricultural systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the heart of South Africa's agricultural landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on soil properties, fertility, and health, and their impact on crop production.
• Develop and evaluate water management strategies, including irrigation techniques and water conservation methods.
• Analyze soil and water samples to assess quality, nutrient levels, and potential contaminants.
• Investigate and recommend soil amendment practices to improve soil structure and fertility.
• Model and predict the effects of land use practices on soil and water resources.
• Develop guidelines and best practices for sustainable agriculture, focusing on soil and water conservation.
• Collaborate with farmers, extension officers, and other stakeholders to disseminate research findings and provide technical support.
• Design and manage field experiments and laboratory studies.
• Prepare scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in soil science, hydrology, and sustainable land management.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of research experience in soil and water management within an agricultural context.
• Strong understanding of soil physics, chemistry, biology, and hydrology.
• Proven experience with research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Familiarity with GIS and remote sensing technologies for land management is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Experience working with agricultural stakeholders in the Free State region is a plus.
• A valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement fund. Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences and further research collaboration, will be provided. This role offers the chance to work on impactful research that contributes to the sustainability of South Africa's agricultural sector. You will be part of a highly respected research institution dedicated to innovation and scientific excellence in Bloemfontein. Join us and make a significant contribution to the future of agriculture in Free State. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated scientist to expand their expertise.