IPM Crop Protection Specialist — Sustainable Solutions

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance incentives

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Crop Protection Specialist in the East London area to lead IPM-based pest, disease, and weed management across multiple crops. You will diagnose crop health issues, recommend control measures, and promote environmentally responsible farming practices.

The role requires a MSc/equivalent in entomology, pathology, agronomy or crop protection, plus at least five years in crop protection with IPM focus. Travel within the Eastern Cape is expected.

Qualifications

• Degree or Master’s in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Crop Protection, or related agricultural science discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in crop protection with a significant IPM focus.
• Proven knowledge of major crop pests, diseases, and weeds relevant to South African agriculture.
• Strong understanding of biological control agents, cultural practices, and chemical control options.
• Experience with field scouting, data collection, and analysis related to pest and disease outbreaks.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and training skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in field conditions.
• Familiarity with agricultural practices and challenges in the East London region is advantageous.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively within the designated area.
• Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental health.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IPM programs for diverse crops.
• Identify and diagnose pests, diseases, and weed problems through field scouting.
• Recommend control strategies prioritizing biological, cultural, and physical methods before chemicals.
• Evaluate efficacy of crop protection products and application techniques.
• Provide technical guidance and training to farmers and farm workers on IPM principles.
• Monitor pest populations, disease incidence, and weed pressure; collect data for analysis.
• Stay current with research findings, regulatory changes, and new IPM technologies.
• Collaborate with researchers and suppliers to evaluate new pest control solutions.
• Ensure safe and responsible handling and application of approved crop protection products.
• Maintain detailed records of crop protection activities, scouting data, and treatment outcomes.

Skills

IPM knowledge

Field scouting

Data collection

Communication skills

Education

Master's in Entomology/Plant Pathology/Agronomy/Crop Protection or related field

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Crop Protection Specialist in the East London area to lead IPM-based pest, disease, and weed management across multiple crops. You will diagnose crop health issues, recommend control measures, and promote environmentally responsible farming practices.

The role requires a MSc/equivalent in entomology, pathology, agronomy or crop protection, plus at least five years in crop protection with IPM focus. Travel within the Eastern Cape is expected.