Precision Agriculture Systems Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Mobile phone

Relocation assistance

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Industry conferences

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, South Africa, seeks a Precision Agriculture Systems Engineer to design, implement, and optimize advanced precision farming technologies across commercial farms. You will integrate GPS guidance, variable rate technology, remote sensing and data analytics to improve crop yields, resource use efficiency, and profitability, while training clients and collaborating with R&D.

This role requires a strong engineering background, willingness to travel to client sites, and a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field with agricultural technology focus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in precision agriculture or related engineering role.
• Proven experience with GPS technology, VRT systems, sensor integration, and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of farm operations and agronomics.
• Proficiency with data management software, GIS platforms, and programming languages (Python, R).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to explain complex concepts to non-technical users.
• Willingness to travel regularly to client farms within Bloemfontein region; fieldwork experience.
• Experience with drone tech for agriculture is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, install, and calibrate precision agriculture systems (GPS, VRT controllers, sensors).
• Develop and manage data platforms for collecting and analyzing farm data.
• Provide technical training to farmers and consultants on precision agriculture tools.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to hardware and software.
• Conduct field trials and pilots to evaluate new precision agriculture technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D to develop new features and improve solutions.
• Stay abreast of IoT, AI, and drone applications in farming.
• Analyze farm data to identify improvements and provide recommendations.
• Ensure seamless integration of precision agriculture components for farm management.
• Contribute to strategic development of precision agriculture services in Bloemfontein area.

Skills

GPS technology

VRT systems

Sensor integration

Data analysis

Programming (Python/R)

GIS platforms

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Agricultural/Engineering degree

Tools

GIS software

Python

R

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in agricultural technology innovation, is seeking a talented Precision Agriculture Systems Engineer to join their dynamic team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role focuses on the design, implementation, and optimization of advanced precision farming technologies. The engineer will work with clients to integrate GPS guidance, variable rate application, remote sensing, and data analytics to enhance farm efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in agricultural engineering, software, or related fields, combined with a passion for applying technology to solve real-world farming challenges. This is a key position for driving the adoption of smart farming techniques within the agricultural heartland of Bloemfontein, Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, install, and calibrate precision agriculture systems, including GPS, VRT controllers, and sensors.
• Develop and manage data management platforms for collecting, processing, and analyzing farm data (e.g., yield maps, soil sensor data, imagery).
• Provide technical support and training to farmers and agricultural consultants on the use of precision agriculture equipment and software.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to precision farming hardware and software.
• Conduct field trials and pilot projects to evaluate new precision agriculture technologies and methodologies.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to develop new features and improve existing precision agriculture solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in agricultural technology, including IoT, AI, and drone applications in farming.
• Analyze farm operational data to identify areas for improvement and provide data-driven recommendations.
• Ensure the seamless integration of various precision agriculture components for optimal farm management.
• Contribute to the strategic development of precision agriculture services offered in the Bloemfontein, Free State region.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with an agricultural technology focus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in precision agriculture, agricultural technology, or a related engineering role.
• Proven experience with GPS technology, VRT systems, sensor integration, and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of farm operations and agronomic principles.
• Proficiency in data management software, GIS platforms, and potentially programming languages (e.g., Python, R).
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical users.
• Willingness to travel regularly to client farms within the Bloemfontein, Free State area and conduct fieldwork.
• Experience with drone technology for agricultural applications is a plus.
• A passion for innovation in agriculture and technology.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous contribution to a retirement fund. Employees have access to extensive professional development opportunities, including specialized training on new technologies and attendance at industry conferences. The company provides a stimulating work environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation. A company vehicle and mobile phone are provided for business purposes. Potential for performance bonuses based on project success and client satisfaction. Relocation assistance may be available for candidates moving to Bloemfontein, Free State .