Remote Agricultural Data Scientist & Analyst

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with employer

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Data Scientist & Analyst to join a fully remote, global team. You will collect, clean, and analyze large agricultural datasets from sensors, weather stations, satellites, and farm management systems to generate actionable insights for farmers and agricultural partners.

You will develop predictive models for crop yields, disease risk, and resource optimization, while presenting findings to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Science, or related quantitative field.
• 4+ years of experience as a Data Scientist or Analyst, with agricultural applications.
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases.

Responsibilities

• Collect, integrate, and manage large agricultural datasets from diverse sources.
• Develop statistical models, ML algorithms, and data mining to extract insights.
• Build predictive models for crop yield forecasting, disease risk, and resource optimization.
• Analyze weather, soil conditions, and environmental factors for strategy insights.
• Visualize data with dashboards and reports for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with agronomists, researchers, and software engineers on data-driven solutions.
• Design experiments to validate models and interventions.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

NoSQL

Data Visualization

Statistical Modeling

Machine Learning

Remote collaboration

Education

Master’s or PhD in Data Science/Statistics/CS/Agricultural Science

Tools

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in AgTech innovation, is seeking a talented and motivated Agricultural Data Scientist & Analyst to join their fully remote team. This role is pivotal in harnessing the power of agricultural data to drive insights, optimize farm operations, and promote sustainable practices globally. You will be responsible for collecting, cleaning, analyzing, and interpreting vast datasets from various agricultural sources, including sensors, weather stations, satellite imagery, and farm management systems. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in data science, statistical modeling, machine learning, and a passion for agriculture. You will develop predictive models for crop yields, disease outbreaks, resource management, and market trends. This remote position offers the flexibility to work from anywhere while collaborating with a global team of experts. Your work will directly contribute to developing smarter, more efficient, and environmentally conscious farming solutions. We are looking for a curious, analytical mind with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations for farmers and agricultural businesses. This is an opportunity to be at the forefront of agricultural innovation and make a significant impact on the future of food production.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect, integrate, and manage large and complex agricultural datasets from diverse sources.
• Develop and implement statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques to extract meaningful insights.
• Build predictive models for crop yield forecasting, disease and pest risk assessment, and resource optimization (water, fertilizer).
• Analyze weather patterns, soil conditions, and other environmental factors to inform agricultural strategies.
• Visualize data through dashboards and reports to effectively communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate with agronomists, researchers, and software engineers to develop data-driven solutions and tools.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate models and assess the impact of different agricultural interventions.
• Ensure data quality, integrity, and security across all analytical processes.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and agricultural technology.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly and concisely, supporting strategic decision-making for our client's partners.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Data Scientist or Analyst, with a significant portion focused on agricultural applications.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant data science libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases.
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning techniques (regression, classification, clustering), and experimental design.
• Familiarity with agricultural data sources and sensor technologies (e.g., IoT devices, satellite imagery, yield monitors).
• Excellent data visualization skills (e.g., Matplotlib, Seaborn, Tableau, Power BI).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote, collaborative environment.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from your preferred location. Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, along with performance-based bonuses. Employees receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage. A robust retirement savings plan with employer matching is available. We invest in our employees' growth through continuous learning opportunities, including access to online courses, workshops, and industry conferences. You'll be part of an innovative and collaborative global team, working on cutting-edge agricultural technology. Enjoy the benefits of working with a company that is truly shaping the future of farming. This role, associated with our operations in Pretoria , offers a chance to apply your skills to real-world agricultural challenges, wherever you are.