Chief Agricultural Engineer - Mechanization & Automation

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Relocation assistance

Private medical cover

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Chief Agricultural Engineer to lead mechanization and automation across farm sites. The role drives strategic planning, design, and maintenance of advanced machinery and automated systems to boost efficiency and reduce costs.

The successful candidate will bring substantial expertise in mechatronics, robotics, IoT, and data analytics, plus a track record of leading large engineering teams and complex projects in agricultural settings.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering with an agricultural focus, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in agricultural engineering, with a significant focus on mechanization and automation.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, implementing, and managing complex agricultural machinery and automated systems.
• Strong understanding of mechatronics, robotics, IoT, and data analytics in an agricultural context.
• Proven ability to lead and manage engineering teams and large-scale projects.
• Experience with project management methodologies and software.
• Familiarity with KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa agricultural contexts is desirable.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to farm sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of mechanization and automation solutions.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and maintenance of farm machinery.
• Develop strategies to integrate AI, IoT, and robotics into farming.
• Manage engineering projects from concept to completion within budget and timeline.
• Provide technical leadership to engineers and technicians.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new tech.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance across sites.
• Analyze data to identify efficiency and cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with R&D and external tech partners.
• Develop training programs for farm staff on new equipment.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Robotics

IoT in agriculture

Data analytics

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Agricultural Engineering / Mechanical Engineering (agricultural focus)

Tools

Project management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise operating in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**, is looking for a Chief Agricultural Engineer to lead their mechanization and automation division. This pivotal role involves the strategic planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced agricultural machinery and automated systems to optimize farm operations. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in agricultural engineering principles, robotics, IoT applications in agriculture, and sustainable farming technologies. You will be responsible for enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring the safe and effective use of cutting-edge technology across multiple farm sites. This hybrid role allows for strategic planning and design work remotely, complemented by essential on-site supervision and operational oversight in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal** and associated farming locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of agricultural mechanization and automation solutions.
• Oversee the selection, procurement, installation, and maintenance of farm machinery and automated systems.
• Develop strategies for integrating new technologies like AI, IoT, and robotics into farming practices.
• Manage engineering projects from conception through to completion, ensuring adherence to budget and timelines.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to a team of agricultural engineers and technicians.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new technological implementations.
• Ensure all machinery and systems comply with safety standards and environmental regulations in **South Africa**.
• Analyze operational data to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost reductions.
• Collaborate with R&D departments and external technology partners to stay at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
• Develop training programs for farm staff on the operation and maintenance of new equipment.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering with an agricultural focus, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in agricultural engineering, with a significant focus on mechanization and automation.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, implementing, and managing complex agricultural machinery and automated systems.
• Strong understanding of mechatronics, robotics, IoT, and data analytics in an agricultural context.
• Proven ability to lead and manage engineering teams and large-scale projects.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience with project management methodologies and software.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and challenges in the **KwaZulu-Natal** region and **South Africa** is highly desirable.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to various farm sites in and around **Durban**.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a substantial bonus structure, comprehensive private medical cover, top-tier retirement fund benefits, and relocation assistance if needed.
• Professional development opportunities, including attending international conferences and advanced training programs, are readily available.
• Join a company committed to revolutionizing agriculture through technology in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**.