Precision Agriculture Specialist

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

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the agricultural sector, is looking for a highly skilled Precision Agriculture Specialist to join their dynamic team in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is crucial for leveraging advanced technologies and data analytics to enhance farming efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. The specialist will be responsible for implementing and managing cutting-edge precision farming techniques, including GPS guidance, drone technology, variable rate application, and sensor-based monitoring. This is an exceptional opportunity to work at the forefront of agricultural technology and contribute to a more efficient and environmentally conscious farming future within the Tembisa operational region. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in modern agriculture.

Key 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.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or a related field with a strong focus on agricultural applications.


• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience with precision agriculture technologies and farm management systems.


• Proven expertise in using GIS software (e.g., 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.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package with performance incentives and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and retirement contributions. This role provides a unique opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Professional development opportunities, including advanced training in new technologies, are provided. The role is based in Tembisa , with a hybrid work arrangement allowing for flexibility. Our client values innovation and offers a supportive work culture. Access to company vehicles for field work is included. We foster an environment of continuous learning and growth.