Hybrid Precision Agriculture Specialist: Drone & Data-Driven Farming

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Company vehicle for field work

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Gauteng seeks a Precision Agriculture Specialist to lead high-tech farming initiatives in Tembisa. You will design and implement precision farming programs, integrate GPS guidance, drones, variable-rate applications, and sensor networks to boost yields and sustainability.

You will train farm staff, collaborate with agronomists, and interpret geospatial data to drive data-driven agronomic recommendations, with a hybrid work setup and access to company vehicles for field duties.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or related field with a strong focus on agricultural applications.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience with precision agriculture technologies and farm management systems.
• Proven expertise in using GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and data analysis tools.
• Experience with drone operation for agricultural mapping and data acquisition (certification preferred).
• Solid understanding of agronomic principles and crop production.
• Familiarity with various types of agricultural sensors and their applications.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in both field and office environments.
• Knowledge of the agricultural landscape in Gauteng is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage precision agriculture programs across various farm operations.
• Operate and maintain GPS receivers, guidance systems, auto-steer technology, and other precision farming equipment.
• Utilize drone technology for crop monitoring, aerial mapping, and data collection.
• Analyze geospatial data, soil sample results, and yield maps to create variable rate application prescription maps for fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds.
• Calibrate and manage sensors and monitoring equipment to gather real-time data on soil moisture, nutrient levels, and weather conditions.
• Provide training and support to farm staff on the use of precision agriculture technologies and software.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to precision farming equipment and software.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farm managers to interpret data and develop data-driven agronomic recommendations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in precision agriculture technology and sustainable farming practices.
• Maintain detailed records of all precision agriculture activities, data, and outcomes.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Drone operation

Job description

Placements24 in Gauteng seeks a Precision Agriculture Specialist to lead high-tech farming initiatives in Tembisa. You will design and implement precision farming programs, integrate GPS guidance, drones, variable-rate applications, and sensor networks to boost yields and sustainability.

You will train farm staff, collaborate with agronomists, and interpret geospatial data to drive data-driven agronomic recommendations, with a hybrid work setup and access to company vehicles for field duties.