Crop Protection Specialist

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 520,000 - 760,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Training & certifications

Travel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks a knowledgeable Crop Protection Specialist to safeguard crop health and maximize yields. You will design and implement IPM strategies, conduct regular field inspections, and advise growers on crop protection products in line with South African regulations.

The role requires advanced expertise in plant pathology, entomology, and weed science, with hands-on data collection and field-based decision making to support sustainable agriculture in Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of crop protection experience.
• Strong knowledge of pests, diseases, and weeds in South Africa.
• Familiarity with pesticide application regulations.
• Experience with data collection and pest monitoring analysis.

Responsibilities

• Field scouting to monitor pests, diseases, and weed infestations.
• Develop and implement IPM programs for crops and conditions.
• Advise on pesticide, herbicide, and fungicide use per regulations.
• Evaluate efficacy of treatments and adjust strategies.
• Maintain records of pest incidence, treatments, and outcomes.
• Stay updated on crop protection tech and sustainable practices.

Skills

Field scouting

IPM programs

Data collection

Regulatory compliance

Pest & disease knowledge

Education

BSc in Plant Pathology/Entomology/Agronomy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Crop Protection Specialist to join their team in Pretoria . This role is vital for safeguarding crop health and ensuring optimal yields by developing and implementing effective pest, disease, and weed management strategies. You will conduct regular field inspections, identify potential threats, and recommend integrated pest management (IPM) solutions that are both environmentally sound and economically viable. This position offers a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in plant pathology, entomology, and weed science within the agriculturally significant Gauteng province.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field scouting to monitor crops for pests, diseases, and weed infestations.
• Develop and implement integrated pest management (IPM) programs tailored to specific crops and environmental conditions.
• Advise growers on the appropriate use of pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Evaluate the efficacy of crop protection treatments and adjust strategies as needed.
• Maintain detailed records of pest and disease incidence, treatments applied, and outcomes.
• Stay current with advancements in crop protection technologies and sustainable agricultural practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Plant Pathology, Entomology, Weed Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in crop protection, agricultural extension, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of common agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds affecting crops in South Africa.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for pesticide application and handling.
• Experience with data collection and analysis for pest monitoring and management decisions.
• Excellent analytical and diagnostic skills, with the ability to provide practical recommendations.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications in crop protection.
• Travel allowance and support for field-based activities.
• A collaborative team environment focused on sustainable agriculture in Pretoria .