Lead Agronomist - Sustainable Practices

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Bonus opportunities

Retirement fund

Professional development

Flexible work options

Travel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, seeks a Lead Agronomist specializing in sustainable practices to guide clients in adopting environmentally sound and economically viable farming methods.

You will develop bespoke strategies, advise on soil health, water management, crop nutrition, and integrated pest management, and mentor junior staff while promoting biodiversity and long-term resilience of farms.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Agronomy or closely related field.
• 8+ years in agronomy with 3+ years in leadership.
• Knowledge of soil health, water conservation, IPM, and organic farming.
• Experience across diverse farming systems.
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills.
• Based in or able to relocate to Centurion, Gauteng.
• Membership in relevant professional bodies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver expert agronomic advice focusing on sustainable and regenerative agriculture.
• Conduct soil and crop health assessments with tailored nutrient and irrigation plans.
• Promote innovative sustainable farming technologies.
• Lead client engagement and build strong relationships.
• Develop training materials and run workshops for farmers.
• Monitor industry trends and regulatory changes in sustainable agriculture.
• Collaborate with researchers and stakeholders to advance initiatives.
• Prepare reports and proposals for clients.
• Mentor junior staff and promote biodiversity.

Skills

Soil health

Water management

Crop nutrition

IPM

Leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in Agronomy

Job description

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural consultancy firm, is seeking an accomplished Lead Agronomist with a specialization in sustainable practices to join their team based in Centurion, Gauteng. This senior role requires a visionary leader to guide clients in adopting environmentally sound and economically viable farming methods. You will be responsible for developing bespoke agronomic strategies, providing expert advice on soil health, water management, crop nutrition, and integrated pest management, with a strong emphasis on ecological balance. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical understanding combined with practical experience in implementing sustainable solutions across diverse agricultural landscapes. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to influence agricultural practices, promote biodiversity, and contribute to the long-term resilience of the farming sector in Gauteng and beyond. You will work closely with a diverse range of clients, from smallholdings to large commercial farms, helping them navigate the complexities of modern, sustainable agriculture. This role requires excellent communication skills to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable advice for clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver expert agronomic advice and strategic planning for clients focusing on sustainable and regenerative agriculture.
• Conduct detailed soil and crop health assessments, providing tailored recommendations for nutrient management, irrigation, and pest control.
• Research, evaluate, and promote innovative sustainable farming technologies and practices.
• Lead client engagement, building strong relationships and ensuring their specific needs are met.
• Develop training materials and conduct workshops for farmers on sustainable agronomic techniques.
• Monitor industry trends, scientific advancements, and regulatory changes related to sustainable agriculture.
• Collaborate with research institutions and other stakeholders to advance sustainable farming initiatives.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and proposals for clients and potential projects.
• Mentor and guide junior agronomists and technical staff.
• Champion the principles of environmental stewardship and biodiversity in agricultural systems.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Agronomy, Soil Science, Plant Science, or a closely related field, with a strong emphasis on sustainable agriculture.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in agronomy, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior advisory role focused on sustainable practices.
• In-depth knowledge of soil health, water conservation, integrated pest management, and organic farming principles.
• Proven experience working with diverse crop types and farming systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and client relationship management abilities.
• Familiarity with relevant agricultural technologies and data management tools.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A passion for environmental sustainability and its application in agriculture.
• Based in or able to relocate to the Centurion, Gauteng area.
• Membership in relevant professional agricultural bodies is an asset.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous contribution to a retirement fund.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, including funding for courses and conferences.
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote work options.
• Travel allowance for client visits and site assessments.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
• The chance to make a real difference in the agricultural industry.