Agricultural Technician - Soil and Water Management

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary in ZAR

Medical aid

Provident fund

Training programs

Diverse research projects

Collaborative environment

Annual leave

Sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Technician for our client in Rustenburg, North West. This on-site role focuses on soil health and water resource management, supporting senior researchers in field trials and lab analyses.

You will collect soil and water samples, perform routine laboratory tests (pH, nutrients, moisture), operate equipment, record data, and ensure safety. Travel to field sites and outdoor work in various weather conditions are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years practical field or lab experience.
• Strong knowledge of soil types, properties and nutrient cycling.
• Knowledge of water quality parameters and irrigation techniques.
• Willingness to travel to field sites around Rustenburg and work outdoors.

Responsibilities

• Assist in design and execution of field experiments related to soil and water management.
• Collect soil and water samples according to established protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses on soil and water samples (e.g., pH, nutrient levels, moisture content).
• Operate and maintain field and laboratory equipment.
• Record, organize, and present field and laboratory data accurately.
• Monitor irrigation systems and water usage on experimental plots.
• Assist in calibration of scientific instruments used in the field and lab.
• Prepare samples and assist researchers in data interpretation.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures in field and laboratory settings.
• Contribute to maintenance of research infrastructure and supplies.

Skills

Soil science

Field data collection

Laboratory analysis

Data entry

Education

National Diploma

Bachelor's degree

Tools

pH meters

Moisture meters

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural research and development firm located in Rustenburg, North West , is actively seeking a skilled and dedicated Agricultural Technician. This role focuses on critical aspects of soil health and water resource management for a variety of agricultural projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in soil science and hydrology, with hands-on experience in field data collection and laboratory analysis. You will be responsible for assisting senior researchers and agronomists in implementing and monitoring field trials, managing soil and water sampling protocols, and conducting basic laboratory tests. This is an essential on-site role, contributing directly to research that aims to improve agricultural sustainability and productivity in the region. The company is committed to advancing agricultural practices through scientific research and provides a supportive environment for its technical staff. You will gain valuable experience working with innovative technologies and contribute to solutions for real-world agricultural challenges. Your work will be integral to understanding and optimizing resource use in farming.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and execution of field experiments related to soil and water management.
• Collect soil and water samples according to established protocols.
• Perform routine laboratory analyses on soil and water samples (e.g., pH, nutrient levels, moisture content).
• Operate and maintain field and laboratory equipment.
• Record, organize, and present field and laboratory data accurately.
• Monitor irrigation systems and water usage on experimental plots.
• Assist in the calibration of scientific instruments used in the field and lab.
• Prepare samples and assist researchers in data interpretation.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures in field and laboratory settings.
• Contribute to the maintenance of research infrastructure and supplies.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of practical experience in agricultural field work or laboratory analysis.
• Solid understanding of soil types, properties, and nutrient cycling.
• Knowledge of water quality parameters and irrigation techniques.
• Experience with basic laboratory procedures and equipment operation.
• Proficiency in data recording and entry, preferably using spreadsheets or databases.
• Ability to follow technical instructions and protocols precisely.
• Good observational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and travel to field sites around Rustenburg .
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.
• Contributions to a provident fund.
• Paid training programs for specific equipment and techniques.
• Opportunities to work on diverse research projects.
• A collaborative research environment.
• Standard annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Exposure to advanced agricultural technologies.