Precision Agriculture Specialist - Farm Technology

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development

Bonuses

Cutting-edge tech

Impactful work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Precision Agriculture Specialist in Benoni, Gauteng, to lead the deployment of precision farming solutions, combining GIS, GPS, drones, and data analytics to boost farm efficiency and sustainability.

The role requires a strong technical background, ability to translate complex data into actionable farmer advice, and to train clients while traveling across Gauteng; a relevant degree and 4+ years experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a technical field.
• Minimum 4 years of precision agriculture or GIS experience.
• Experience with GIS software (ArcGIS/QGIS) and data analysis.
• Drone operations experience is a strong advantage.
• Understanding of soil science, crop physiology and agronomy.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage precision agriculture programs for clients, utilizing GPS, GIS, and variable rate technologies.
• Collect, process, and analyze agricultural data from sensors, drones, and satellite imagery.
• Develop data-driven recommendations for planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest management.
• Operate and maintain precision agriculture equipment, including GPS receivers and soil sampling tools.
• Provide technical support and training to farmers on precision agriculture technologies and software.
• Conduct field assessments and surveys to gather spatial data and identify improvements.
• Stay updated on advancements in agricultural technology, drones, sensors, and analytics platforms.
• Generate reports summarizing findings and recommendations for clients.

Skills

GIS knowledge

Data analysis

Communication skills

Problem solving

Independent work

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, or Geomatics

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

GPS technology

Drone surveying

Soil sampling tools

Sensor networks

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking agricultural technology firm operating in the **Benoni, Gauteng** area, is seeking a highly skilled Precision Agriculture Specialist. This role is central to leveraging data and technology to enhance farm efficiency, sustainability, and profitability for their clients. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), GPS technology, sensor networks, drone applications, and data analytics within an agricultural context. You will be responsible for implementing and managing precision farming solutions, interpreting complex datasets, and providing actionable insights to farmers in the **Gauteng** region and beyond. This position requires a blend of technical expertise, agronomic knowledge, and strong communication skills to effectively bridge the gap between advanced technology and practical farm application. The **Benoni** location provides a strategic base for engaging with the vibrant agricultural sector in **Gauteng**. We are looking for an innovative individual eager to drive the adoption of smart farming practices and contribute to the modernization of agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage precision agriculture programs for clients, utilizing GPS, GIS, and variable rate technologies.
• Collect, process, and analyze agricultural data from various sources, including sensors, drones, and satellite imagery.
• Develop data-driven recommendations for optimized planting, fertilization, irrigation, and pest management strategies.
• Operate and maintain precision agriculture equipment, including GPS receivers, VRT applicators, and soil sampling tools.
• Provide technical support and training to farmers on the use of precision agriculture technologies and software.
• Conduct field assessments and surveys to gather spatial data and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in agricultural technology, drones, sensors, and data analytics platforms.
• Generate comprehensive reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations for clients.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to precision farming equipment and software.
• Promote the benefits of precision agriculture in enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in precision agriculture, GIS, or agricultural data analysis.
• Strong practical experience with GPS, GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), and data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with drone operation for agricultural surveying and imaging is a significant advantage.
• Understanding of soil science, crop physiology, and agronomic principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to farm locations in and around **Benoni**.
• Passion for technology and its application in modernizing agriculture.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and opportunities for professional development in a rapidly growing field. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and work with a team of passionate experts. This role provides a significant opportunity to shape the future of farming in **South Africa**.

• Benefits include comprehensive health insurance and a supportive work culture in **Benoni**, **Gauteng**.

Join a company that is at the forefront of agricultural innovation and make a real impact on farming practices.