Project Manager, Agricultural Technology Initiatives

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development and education

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Project Manager to lead technology initiatives in Mahikeng, North West. You will guide projects that integrate cutting-edge technologies into farming operations to boost productivity, sustainability, and efficiency.

The role requires hands-on field presence on farms and project sites to ensure effective implementation and stakeholder buy-in across agritech initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a focus on agricultural technology.
• Proven experience managing technology implementation projects in an agricultural setting.
• Strong understanding of precision agriculture, farm management software, IoT in agriculture, and data analytics.
• Relevant certifications in project management or agricultural technology are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of agricultural technology projects.
• Define project scope, objectives, deliverables, and KPIs.
• Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Manage and coordinate project teams, including agronomists, technologists, and external consultants.
• Oversee the implementation of precision farming tools, data analytics platforms, and farm management software.
• Ensure projects contribute to improved crop yields, resource efficiency, and sustainability.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Manage relationships with technology vendors and service providers.
• Communicate project status, outcomes, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
• Evaluate the impact and ROI of implemented technologies.

Skills

Project management

Agricultural technology

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Data analytics

IoT in agriculture

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science

Agronomy

Agricultural Engineering

Tools

Farm management software

IoT platforms

PM software (e.g., MS Project)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural enterprise focused on innovation, is seeking a dynamic Project Manager to lead their technology initiatives in Mahikeng, North West . This role is central to implementing and managing projects that integrate cutting-edge technologies into farming operations, aiming to enhance productivity, sustainability, and efficiency. You will work with teams focusing on precision agriculture, data management, automation, and smart farming solutions. The ideal candidate will have a background in agriculture or a related science, combined with strong project management skills and a passion for agritech. This is a unique opportunity to drive technological advancements in a vital sector within the North West province. The position requires a hands-on approach and regular presence on farms and at project sites to ensure effective implementation and stakeholder buy-in.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful completion of agricultural technology projects.
• Define project scope, objectives, deliverables, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource allocation, and budget management.
• Manage and coordinate project teams, including agronomists, technologists, and external consultants.
• Oversee the implementation of precision farming tools, data analytics platforms, and farm management software.
• Ensure projects contribute to improved crop yields, resource efficiency, and sustainability.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement effective mitigation strategies.
• Manage relationships with technology vendors and service providers.
• Communicate project status, outcomes, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
• Evaluate the impact and ROI of implemented technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a focus on agricultural technology or related projects.
• Proven experience managing technology implementation projects in an agricultural setting.
• Strong understanding of precision agriculture, farm management software, IoT in agriculture, and data analytics.
• Knowledge of modern farming practices and challenges in the North West region.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets and resources.
• Relevant certifications in project management or agricultural technology are a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and project impact.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and further education in agritech.
• Generous annual leave and holiday schedule.
• Be at the forefront of agricultural innovation in South Africa.
• Work on projects that directly contribute to food security and sustainability.
• Exposure to diverse farming operations in the Mahikeng area.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on knowledge sharing.
• Potential for travel to industry conferences and research institutions.
• Significant role in shaping the future of farming in the North West .