Project Manager, Agricultural Innovation

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Performance-based annual incentive

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Professional development and training

Company vehicle for site visits

Direct impact on sustainable agri-adv

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct in Paarl, Western Cape seeks a dedicated Project Manager to oversee agricultural innovation projects on-site. You will plan, execute and deliver initiatives aimed at improving crop yields, resource optimization and sustainable farming practices.

Responsibilities include coordinating with farmers, researchers and technology providers, managing budgets and timelines, and ensuring best practices in the field. A hands-on, proactive PM with strong communication is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field.
• Proven experience managing complex agricultural projects.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Familiarity with MS Project or similar PM tools.
• Ability to work on-site in Paarl.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of agricultural innovation projects, from conception to implementation.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with agricultural scientists, farmers, equipment suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure projects align with best practices in sustainable agriculture and food security.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement timely mitigation strategies.
• Manage project documentation and provide regular progress reports to the management team.
• Oversee the practical application and testing of new agricultural technologies and methodologies.
• Facilitate effective communication among all project participants.
• Contribute to the identification of future innovation opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Skills

Project management

MS Project

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture

Tools

MS Project

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is actively seeking a dedicated Project Manager to oversee agricultural innovation projects in Paarl, Western Cape.

This on-site role requires a hands-on approach to managing initiatives that are at the forefront of agricultural technology and sustainable farming practices in the region. You will be responsible for the planning, execution, and successful completion of projects aimed at improving crop yields, optimizing resource management, and implementing new farming techniques. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in project management, coupled with a genuine interest in agriculture and innovation. You will work closely with farmers, researchers, and technology providers to ensure the successful deployment of new solutions. This position demands excellent organizational skills, a proactive attitude towards problem-solving, and the ability to effectively manage diverse project stakeholders in a collaborative, field-based environment. We are looking for a results-driven individual committed to advancing the agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of agricultural innovation projects, from conception to implementation.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with agricultural scientists, farmers, equipment suppliers, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure projects align with best practices in sustainable agriculture and food security.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement timely mitigation strategies.
• Manage project documentation and provide regular progress reports to the management team.
• Oversee the practical application and testing of new agricultural technologies and methodologies.
• Facilitate effective communication among all project participants.
• Contribute to the identification of future innovation opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Project Manager, ideally with a background in agriculture, agronomy, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex projects, preferably involving new technologies or methodologies.
• Strong understanding of project management principles and practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management software such as MS Project or similar tools.
• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, or a related science.
• Practical experience or knowledge of farming operations and agricultural technology is highly valued.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an on-site, field-oriented setting.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based annual incentive bonus.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in agricultural innovation.
• Company vehicle for site visits and project-related travel.
• Direct impact on sustainable agricultural advancements in the Western Cape.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Access to cutting-edge agricultural research and technologies.