Remote Agricultural Data Scientist - Crop Modeling

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Remote Agricultural Data Scientist in South Africa to lead crop growth modeling using weather, soil, satellite imagery, and farm data. You will build and validate predictive models that improve yields and resource use, while communicating insights to stakeholders.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in data science, advanced degrees, and strong Python/R programming skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Science with a strong computational focus, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum 6 years of professional experience as a Data Scientist with focus on predictive models and large datasets.
• Demonstrated expertise in machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and data mining techniques.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R, including experience with relevant data science libraries.
• Experience with agricultural data (weather, soil, imagery, yield) and crop modeling is advantageous.
• Proficiency in data manipulation and SQL querying.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills; able to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical and ML models for crop growth simulation and yield prediction.
• Process, clean, and integrate diverse datasets (weather, soil, satellite imagery, sensor data).
• Use Python or R and libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) to build/refine models.
• Assess model performance, validate, and iterate improvements.
• Develop data visualization tools and dashboards for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with agronomists and domain experts to ensure model relevance.
• Stay updated with latest research in data science and agricultural modeling.
• Contribute to data pipelines and infrastructure for large-scale analysis.
• Document methodologies, code, and findings clearly.

Skills

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Data mining

Education

Master's degree in Data Science

PhD in Data Science

Tools

Python

R

SQL

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge innovator in the Agriculture & Forestry sector, is seeking a talented and experienced Remote Agricultural Data Scientist to join their dynamic team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will be at the forefront of developing sophisticated crop models, leveraging vast datasets that include weather, soil, satellite imagery, and farm management data. Your expertise will be crucial in driving insights that enhance crop yields, optimize resource utilization, and promote sustainable farming practices. The ideal candidate is a highly analytical thinker with a strong background in data science, machine learning, and a passion for applying these skills to solve complex challenges in modern agriculture. This role is a prime opportunity to make a significant impact on global food security through advanced data-driven solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced statistical and machine learning models for crop growth simulation and yield prediction.
• Process, clean, and integrate diverse datasets, including historical weather data, soil properties, satellite imagery, and sensor data.
• Utilize programming languages (e.g., Python, R) and data science libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch) to build and refine models.
• Analyze model performance, conduct validation studies, and iterate on model improvements.
• Develop data visualization tools and dashboards to communicate complex findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with agronomists, remote sensing specialists, and domain experts to ensure model relevance and accuracy.
• Stay current with the latest research and advancements in data science, machine learning, and agricultural modeling.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of data pipelines and infrastructure for large-scale agricultural data analysis.
• Document methodologies, code, and findings thoroughly.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Science with a strong computational focus, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 6 years of professional experience as a Data Scientist, with a significant focus on building predictive models and working with large datasets.
• Demonstrated expertise in machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and data mining techniques.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R, including experience with relevant data science libraries.
• Experience with agricultural data (e.g., weather, soil, imagery, yield) and crop modeling principles is highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in data manipulation and database querying (e.g., SQL).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and deliver results in a remote work setting.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, generous performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical coverage and retirement planning. Our client provides significant opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and exposure to groundbreaking agricultural technology. You will be part of an innovative and supportive global team dedicated to transforming agriculture through data. This is an exceptional chance for a skilled Data Scientist to leverage their expertise in a meaningful and impactful remote role.