Agro-Ecologist - Sustainable Farming Systems Design

Placements24; Graafwater; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a forward-thinking agricultural research and development organization in Paarl, Western Cape, seeking an experienced Agro-Ecologist to design sustainable farming systems. The role focuses on integrating ecological principles to boost biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience while maintaining productivity.

Lead field experiments, guide landscape-scale ecological planning, and collaborate with farmers, researchers, and policymakers to promote regenerative

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Agroecology, Ecology, Agronomy with ecological focus, or closely related environmental science discipline.
• Minimum 6 years of research and practical experience applying ecological principles to agricultural systems.
• In-depth knowledge of biodiversity, ecosystem function, nutrient cycling, and soil ecology.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and evaluate integrated agro-ecological farming systems.
• Conduct ecological assessments of agricultural landscapes and identify key processes.
• Research and apply biodiversity conservation, soil health, and nutrient cycling principles.
• Develop strategies to enhance ecosystem services such as pollination and pest control.
• Collaborate with farmers to transition to regenerative practices.
• Monitor performance using ecological and agronomic indicators.
• Create training materials and run workshops for farmers and extension agents.
• Collaborate with researchers to advance agroecology understanding.
• Contribute to policy development for sustainable agriculture and land use.
• Prepare technical reports and research publications.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Ecological modeling

Field research

Education

Ph.D. in Agroecology or related field

Tools

R

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural research and development organization, is seeking an experienced Agro-Ecologist to lead the design and implementation of sustainable farming systems. This role, located in the agriculturally rich region of Paarl, Western Cape, focuses on integrating ecological principles into agricultural practices to enhance biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience while maintaining or improving productivity. The successful candidate will work with farmers, researchers, and policymakers to develop innovative and practical solutions for a more sustainable food future. You will be instrumental in assessing environmental impacts, promoting regenerative agriculture, and advising on landscape-level ecological planning within agricultural contexts. This is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in promoting environmentally sound and economically viable farming.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and evaluate integrated agro-ecological farming systems that optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact.
• Conduct ecological assessments of agricultural landscapes, identifying key ecological processes and potential threats.
• Research and apply principles of agroecology, including biodiversity conservation, soil health management, and nutrient cycling within farming systems.
• Develop strategies for enhancing ecosystem services within agricultural landscapes, such as pollination, pest control, and water regulation.
• Work collaboratively with farmers to transition towards more sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices.
• Monitor and analyze the performance of implemented agro-ecological systems, using both ecological and agronomic indicators.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops for farmers, extension agents, and other stakeholders on agroecological principles and practices.
• Collaborate with scientific researchers to advance the understanding of agroecological interactions in different farming contexts.
• Contribute to policy development related to sustainable agriculture and land use planning.
• Prepare technical reports, scientific publications, and project proposals.
• Stay abreast of the latest research and best practices in agroecology and sustainable agriculture worldwide.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Agroecology, Ecology, Agronomy with an ecological focus, or a closely related environmental science discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of research and practical experience in applying ecological principles to agricultural systems.
• In-depth knowledge of ecological concepts, including biodiversity, ecosystem function, nutrient cycling, and soil ecology.
• Proven experience in designing and managing field experiments and monitoring ecological indicators.
• Strong understanding of regenerative agriculture, organic farming, and other sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and ecological modeling tools.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working directly with farmers and agricultural communities is highly desirable.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Western Cape region for fieldwork and site visits.
• Passion for sustainable food systems and environmental stewardship.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance-related bonuses and opportunities for career advancement.
• Comprehensive medical aid, provident fund, and life insurance are provided.
• Generous support for professional development, including conference attendance and specialized training, is available.
• This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for fieldwork and on-site collaboration at our Paarl office, as well as remote work for data analysis and report preparation.

Join a leading organization committed to shaping a more sustainable agricultural future.