Crop Protection Specialist

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

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Retirement annuity

Incentives

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Crop Protection Specialist for our farming operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will develop and manage IPM programs, diagnose crop diseases and pests, and advise on chemical, biological, and cultural control measures to protect yields.

You will lead field scouting, maintain records, train farm workers on safe application techniques, and collaborate with agronomists to integrate protection strategies with overall farm management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Agronomy, Plant Science, Entomology, or Crop Pathology.
• Minimum 5 years' practical experience in crop protection or pest management.
• Deep knowledge of pests, diseases, and weeds affecting Gauteng crops.
• Strong IPM understanding and sustainable farming practices.
• Experience with safe use of agricultural chemicals and equipment.

Responsabilités

• Develop and monitor IPM programs for various crops.
• Diagnose plant diseases, pests, and weeds; advise control measures.
• Ensure regulatory compliance for storage, handling and application of crop protection products.
• Provide training to farm workers on safe application techniques.
• Collaborate with agronomists to integrate protection strategies with farm plans.
• Maintain records of pest incidence and treatment efficacy.

Formation

Bachelor's degree or higher in Agronomy, Plant Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, or related agricultural field

Outils

Pesticide application equipment

Chemical/biological control methods

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural producer in the Vereeniging area, Gauteng, is seeking a highly knowledgeable and proactive Crop Protection Specialist . This role is crucial for safeguarding crop yields and ensuring the health of produce through the strategic management of pests, diseases, and weeds. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of integrated pest management (IPM) principles, chemical and biological control methods, and crop pathology. You will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive crop protection strategies tailored to the specific needs of our client's diverse agricultural operations. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the success and sustainability of farming practices in the Gauteng region. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of scientific rigor, environmental responsibility, and continuous improvement within our agricultural division.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor integrated pest management (IPM) programs for various crops.
• Identify and diagnose plant diseases, insect infestations, and weed problems.
• Recommend and oversee the application of appropriate control measures, including pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and biological agents.
• Conduct regular field scouting and monitoring to detect early signs of potential issues.
• Maintain detailed records of pest/disease incidence, treatments applied, and their efficacy.
• Ensure compliance with all regulations related to the storage, handling, and application of crop protection chemicals.
• Provide training and guidance to farm workers on safe and effective application techniques.
• Stay informed about new research, technologies, and best practices in crop protection.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to integrate crop protection strategies with overall farm management plans.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or higher in Agronomy, Plant Science, Entomology, Plant Pathology, or a related agricultural field.
• A minimum of 5 years of practical experience in crop protection, pest management, or a similar role.
• In-depth knowledge of common agricultural pests, diseases, and weeds affecting crops grown in the Gauteng region.
• Strong understanding of IPM principles and sustainable farming practices.
• Experience with the safe and effective use of agricultural chemicals and application equipment.
• Excellent observational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for training and collaboration.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various farm sites around Vereeniging .
• Professional certification in pesticide application or crop advising is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package aligned with experience and expertise.
• Performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for continuing professional development and further certifications.
• Contribution to a retirement annuity.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment within a leading agricultural enterprise.