Precision Agriculture Specialist

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development budget

Health insurance

Access to latest ag tech

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Precision Agriculture Specialist to deploy and manage GPS, sensors, drones and data analytics for improved crop and livestock management in Durban. You will translate complex data into actionable farm recommendations and train farm staff on digital tools.

Applicants should have a relevant degree and 3–5 years of experience with precision agriculture technologies, GIS, and FMIS. The role offers a competitive package and access to cutting-edge ag tech.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Experience with precision agriculture technologies and data analysis.
• Ability to translate data into practical farming recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Implement and manage precision agriculture technologies such as GPS and sensor networks.
• Analyze data from sensors, drones, and satellites to optimize farm operations.
• Provide data-driven soil, planting, irrigation, and pest-control recommendations.
• Train farm managers and operators on precision tools and software.
• Stay updated on emerging digital farming technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D to test new precision equipment and software.

Skills

GPS guidance

Sensors

Drones

Data analytics

GIS software

FMIS

Crop physiology

Soil science

Analytical thinking

Training users

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science (ag focus)

Tools

GIS software

FMIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a forward-thinking Precision Agriculture Specialist to join their innovative team in Durban . This role is designed for an individual passionate about leveraging technology to optimize agricultural practices for increased efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. You will be responsible for the deployment and management of advanced technologies such as GPS, sensors, drones, and data analytics software to provide actionable insights for crop and livestock management. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of farming by integrating cutting-edge digital solutions into traditional agricultural operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and manage precision agriculture technologies, including GPS guidance systems, variable rate applicators, and sensor networks.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret agricultural data from various sources (sensors, drones, satellite imagery) to identify trends and optimize farm operations.
• Develop data-driven recommendations for soil management , planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest control.
• Provide training and technical support to farm managers and operators on the use of precision agriculture tools and software.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in agricultural innovation and digital farming.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to test and evaluate new precision agriculture equipment and software solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Computer Science with an agricultural focus, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience working with precision agriculture technologies and data analysis in an agricultural context.
• Proficiency in using GIS software, data analytics platforms, and common farm management information systems (FMIS).
• Understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and agronomic principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into practical recommendations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to train and support users.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance incentives for technology adoption and efficiency gains.
• Generous allowance for professional development and training in new technologies.
• Access to the latest agricultural technology and research initiatives.
• Comprehensive health insurance package.
• A dynamic work environment focused on innovation and sustainable agriculture.