Remote Agricultural Data Scientist - Precision Farming

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

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Home office stipend

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Agricultural Data Scientist to transform sensor, satellite, weather, and soil data into actionable insights that improve crop yields and resource efficiency. The role focuses on predictive modeling, data-driven decision support, and scalable analytics for precision farming.

You will work with agronomists, researchers, and farm managers to deploy models, design experiments, and deliver dashboards from a fully remote setup, contributing to sustainable agriculture

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in data science, computer science, statistics, agricultural engineering or related quantitative field.
• 5+ years of experience as a data scientist with significant agricultural applications.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain ML models for agricultural data (yield, disease, pests).
• Process and integrate large datasets from IoT, drones, satellites, and weather histories.
• Design and run statistical analyses to identify drivers of crop performance and resource use.
• Visualize results and communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver data-driven solutions.
• Stay updated with advances in data science and agtech.
• Create tools and dashboards for real-time monitoring and decision support in farms.
• Contribute to strategic direction of data initiatives in precision agriculture.

Skills

Python

R

Pandas

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

SQL

NoSQL

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Experimental design

GIS

Remote sensing

Education

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

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

About the Role Our client is pioneering the integration of advanced data analytics into modern agriculture and is seeking a talented **Remote Agricultural Data Scientist** to join their forward-thinking team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute to cutting-edge precision farming initiatives from anywhere. You will be instrumental in transforming vast datasets from various agricultural sources – including sensor data, satellite imagery, weather patterns, and soil analyses – into actionable insights that drive crop yield, improve resource efficiency, and promote sustainable farming practices. This role requires a strong analytical mindset, deep understanding of agricultural principles, and expertise in data science methodologies. You will work closely with agronomists, researchers, and farm managers to develop predictive models, optimize planting strategies, and enhance overall farm productivity. This is an exceptional opportunity to leverage technology to shape the future of agriculture on a global scale, focusing on innovation and data-driven decision-making. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a passion for applying scientific principles to real-world agricultural challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain machine learning models and algorithms for agricultural data analysis, including predictive analytics for yield, disease, and pest outbreaks.
• Process, clean, and integrate large, complex datasets from diverse sources (IoT sensors, drones, satellites, historical records).
• Design and conduct statistical analyses to identify key drivers of crop performance and resource utilization.
• Visualize data and communicate complex findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams to define project requirements and deliver data-driven solutions.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and agricultural technology.
• Develop tools and dashboards for real-time monitoring and decision support for farm operations.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the company's data initiatives in precision agriculture.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Agricultural Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) as a Data Scientist, with a significant portion focused on agricultural applications or related domains.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and associated data science libraries (e.g., Pandas, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases, and data warehousing concepts.
• Expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning techniques (regression, classification, clustering, deep learning), and experimental design.
• Familiarity with GIS software and remote sensing data analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote, distributed team environment.
• Understanding of agricultural practices and challenges is highly desirable.

Benefits

As a fully remote employee, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance. Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous paid time off. Access to cutting-edge technology, continuous learning opportunities, and the chance to work on impactful projects that advance sustainable agriculture are core offerings. A home office stipend is provided to ensure you have the optimal work environment. This role offers the unique advantage of shaping agricultural practices globally from the comfort of your own home.