Crop Protection Scientist - Integrated Pest Management

Placements24; Benoni; Sur place; ZAR 600 000 - 900 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional growth

Résumé du poste

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, is seeking a Crop Protection Scientist with IPM expertise to develop and implement strategies protecting crops against pests, diseases, and weeds. The role involves field trials, data analysis, and advising farmers on management approaches within SA regulatory guidelines.

The candidate will have a strong background in plant pathology, entomology, and weed science, plus at least 5 years of IPM-focused research experience.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science discipline.
• At least 5 years of experience in crop protection research and development with a strong IPM focus.
• Experience designing field trials and analyzing experimental data.
• Good understanding of pesticide modes of action, resistance management, and regulatory affairs.
• Familiarity with biological control methods and sustainable crop protection techniques.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsabilités

• Develop and refine IPM strategies for various crops with ecological approaches.
• Conduct field research and trials to evaluate pest, disease, and weed control methods.
• Monitor pest populations, disease incidence, and weed infestations in fields.
• Analyze data from trials to recommend crop protection interventions.
• Advise farmers and agronomists on crop health issue management.
• Ensure safe and responsible use of pesticides and regulatory compliance.
• Research and promote biological control and non-chemical methods.
• Stay updated on scientific advancements and regulatory changes.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations on findings.
• Collaborate with research institutions and industry partners on crop health initiatives.

Connaissances

IPM expertise

Data analysis

Field trial design

Pest ID

Regulatory knowledge

Formation

Master's or PhD in Plant Pathology/Entomology/Weed Science/Agronomy

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the agricultural sector based in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking a dedicated Crop Protection Scientist with expertise in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This role is vital for developing and implementing effective strategies to manage pests, diseases, and weeds, thereby safeguarding crop health and maximizing yields in a sustainable manner. The successful candidate will conduct research, design field trials, and provide technical guidance on the safe and efficient use of crop protection methods. This position requires a strong scientific foundation in plant pathology, entomology, and weed science, coupled with practical experience in applying IPM principles within the agricultural landscape of Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies for various crops, emphasizing ecological and sustainable approaches.
• Conduct field research and trials to evaluate the efficacy of different pest, disease, and weed control methods.
• Monitor pest populations, disease incidence, and weed infestations in agricultural fields.
• Analyze data from trials and field observations to make informed recommendations on crop protection interventions.
• Advise farmers and agronomists on the identification and management of specific crop health issues.
• Ensure the safe and responsible use of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, adhering to regulatory requirements.
• Research and promote the use of biological control agents and other non-chemical pest management techniques.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements, regulatory changes, and emerging threats in crop protection.
• Prepare technical reports, scientific publications, and presentations on crop protection research findings.
• Collaborate with research institutions, government agencies, and industry partners on crop health initiatives.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a related agricultural science discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in crop protection research and development, with a strong focus on IPM.
• Proven expertise in identifying and managing common agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds relevant to South Africa.
• Experience in designing and conducting field trials and analyzing experimental data.
• Good understanding of pesticide modes of action, resistance management, and regulatory affairs.
• Familiarity with biological control methods and other sustainable crop protection techniques.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to farm sites around Benoni and the broader Gauteng region.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• comprehensive health and retirement benefits
• opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading agricultural organization

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading agricultural organization. This role provides a significant opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security by protecting crops from threats in the Gauteng region. You will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to innovation in agricultural science.