Lead Agricultural Engineer - Precision Farming

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Substantial annual bonus

Excellent medical aid

Pension fund

Hybrid work arrangement

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, invites a Lead Agricultural Engineer specializing in Precision Farming to drive AI, IoT and sensor integration across our client's vineyards and crops.

The role focuses on designing and deploying GPS guidance, variable rate technology, remote sensing and data analytics while developing staff training and collaborating with agronomists to scale sustainable farming across the Western Cape.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering.
• 8+ years in agricultural engineering focusing on precision farming, automation, and data management.
• Experience with GIS, data analysis tools (R, Python), and agricultural data platforms.
• Expertise in sensor networks, IoT devices, and ML applications in agriculture.
• Hands-on with agricultural machinery, hydraulics, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage precision agriculture systems, including GPS guidance, variable rate technology, remote sensing, and data analytics platforms.
• Develop and maintain sensor networks for real-time monitoring of soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health across Stellenbosch sites.
• Integrate data from drones, satellites, in-field sensors, machinery to generate actionable insights for crop management, irrigation scheduling, and pest/disease control.
• Oversee selection, procurement, and maintenance of agricultural machinery with focus on automation and efficiency.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and research institutions to pilot and scale precision farming technologies.
• Develop and deliver training programs for farm staff on operation and utilization of precision agriculture equipment and software.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable farming through technology.
• Analyze operational data to identify areas for cost reduction, yield improvement, and resource optimization in Stellenbosch.

Skills

GIS software

Python

IoT devices

Data analytics

Sensor networks

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Eng (Agric/Mech/Electrical)

Tools

GIS software

R/Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward‑thinking agricultural group in the heart of the Stellenbosch, Western Cape wine region, is searching for a dynamic and innovative Lead Agricultural Engineer specializing in Precision Farming. This pivotal role will drive the integration and optimization of advanced technologies across our client's diverse farming operations, from large‑scale vineyards to specialized crop cultivation. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agricultural engineering, a passion for data‑driven decision‑making, and a proven ability to implement sustainable and efficient farming solutions. You will be at the forefront of leveraging AI, IoT, and sensor technologies to enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the highest quality produce. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of agriculture in one of South Africa's most prestigious agricultural hubs, contributing to operational excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage precision agriculture systems, including GPS guidance, variable rate technology (VRT), remote sensing, and data analytics platforms.
• Develop and maintain sensor networks for real‑time monitoring of soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health across various farming sites in Stellenbosch.
• Integrate data from multiple sources (drones, satellites, in‑field sensors, machinery) to generate actionable insights for crop management, irrigation scheduling, and pest/disease control.
• Oversee the selection, procurement, and maintenance of agricultural machinery and equipment with a focus on automation and efficiency.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and research institutions to pilot and scale new precision farming technologies and methodologies.
• Develop and deliver training programs for farm staff on the operation and utilization of precision agriculture equipment and software.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable farming practices through technological integration.
• Analyze operational data to identify areas for cost reduction, yield improvement, and resource optimization in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in agricultural engineering, with a strong focus on precision farming, automation, and data management.
• Demonstrated experience with GIS software, data analysis tools (e.g., R, Python), and agricultural data platforms.
• Proven expertise in the design and implementation of sensor networks, IoT devices, and machine learning applications in agriculture.
• Hands‑on experience with agricultural machinery, hydraulics, and control systems.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to lead cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a proactive approach to innovation and technological adoption.
• Excellent communication and reporting skills, comfortable presenting technical information to diverse audiences in Stellenbosch.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to travel between farm sites as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including a substantial annual bonus, excellent medical aid benefits, and a robust pension fund.
• Opportunities for advanced training, international conferences, and career progression are readily available.
• The company invests heavily in cutting‑edge technology, providing access to the latest tools and equipment.
• A flexible hybrid work arrangement is offered, balancing on‑site operational needs with remote work flexibility.
• Join a team dedicated to revolutionizing agriculture in the beautiful Stellenbosch, Western Cape region.