Head of Agricultural 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

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.