Remote Agricultural Data Scientist - Precision Agriculture

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Online learning courses

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly capable Remote Agricultural Data Scientist to drive insights from large, diverse datasets and advance precision agriculture. You will collect, clean, analyze, and interpret sensor data, imagery, weather, and yield information to build predictive models and improve sustainability.

The role requires 6+ years in data science with a strong agricultural focus, proficiency in Python or R, and experience with Spark/Hadoop, cloud platforms, GIS, and remote sensing.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in data science, with a strong focus on agricultural applications.
• Proficiency in Python or R and relevant libraries (scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with GIS and remote sensing is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop machine learning models and analyses for agricultural data.
• Process large datasets from sensors, drones, and software.
• Create visualizations and dashboards for stakeholders.
• Identify trends to optimize resource use (water, fertilizer, pesticides).
• Develop predictive models for yield, disease, and weather impacts.
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate models into platforms.
• Design experiments to validate model performance.
• Stay updated on advances in data science and agtech.
• Contribute to new data-driven products and services.

Skills

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Data Science / CS / Statistics / Agricultural Engineering

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering agricultural technology company, is seeking a highly skilled Remote Agricultural Data Scientist to drive insights from complex datasets and advance their precision agriculture solutions. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. You will be responsible for collecting, cleaning, analyzing, and interpreting vast amounts of agricultural data, including sensor readings, satellite imagery, weather patterns, and yield information. Your work will be instrumental in developing predictive models, optimizing farm management practices, and enhancing crop yields and sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in data science, machine learning, statistical modeling, and a deep understanding of agricultural principles. You will collaborate closely with agronomists, engineers, and product managers to translate data-driven findings into actionable recommendations and innovative technological solutions for farmers worldwide. This role offers the flexibility of remote work combined with the challenge of solving critical issues in modern agriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement machine learning models and statistical analyses for agricultural data.
• Process and analyze large datasets from various sources, including IoT sensors, drones, and farm management software.
• Create visualizations and dashboards to communicate complex findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Identify trends and patterns in agricultural data to optimize resource allocation (water, fertilizer, pesticides).
• Develop predictive models for crop yield, disease outbreaks, and weather impacts.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate data models into existing platforms and products.
• Design and conduct experiments to validate model performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and agricultural technology.
• Contribute to the development of new data-driven products and services for the agricultural sector.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in data science, with a significant focus on agricultural applications or a strong demonstrated interest.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and data mining techniques.
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with GIS and remote sensing data analysis is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively in a remote team environment.
• Passion for leveraging technology to address challenges in agriculture and food production.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers exceptional flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, commensurate with your skills and experience. Benefits include health coverage, opportunities for continuous learning through online courses and conferences, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology that is transforming agriculture. You will be part of an innovative and supportive virtual team dedicated to making a real-world impact from Polokwane, Limpopo, or indeed any location.