Remote Crop Protection Specialist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 650,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Remote work

Global impact

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Remote Crop Protection Specialist to guide clients worldwide in protecting crops from pests, diseases and weeds. You will design IPM strategies, diagnose issues remotely via descriptions and imagery, and propose sustainable control methods across diverse crops and regions.

We value a Ph.D. or Master’s in Entomology, Plant Pathology, or Weed Science with 5+ years in crop protection, plus strong remote communication and problem-solving abilities.

Qualifications

• Advanced remote diagnostics of crop health via descriptions and imagery.
• Strong understanding of pest life cycles, disease epidemiology, and weed biology.
• Excellent remote communication, consulting and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IPM plans tailored to crops and regional conditions.
• Provide remote expert advice on identifying plant diseases, insect infestations, and weeds.
• Recommend biological, cultural, chemical and physical control methods with sustainability.
• Educate clients on monitoring pest and disease pressure and field observations.
• Stay updated on regulatory requirements, new pest control technologies and threats.
• Analyze pest scouting data to inform strategic recommendations.

Education

Master's degree in Entomology

Ph.D. in Entomology / Plant Pathology / Weed Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a knowledgeable and proactive Remote Crop Protection Specialist to provide expert guidance on safeguarding crops from pests, diseases, and weeds. In this fully remote role, you will leverage your extensive understanding of plant pathology, entomology, and weed science to develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for clients. You will analyze client-specific challenges, recommend sustainable and effective solutions, and provide ongoing support through digital platforms. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute to food security and sustainable agriculture on a global scale, supporting growers from Mpumalanga and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement customized Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans tailored to specific crops and regional conditions.
• Provide remote expert advice on identifying and diagnosing plant diseases, insect infestations, and weed issues.
• Recommend appropriate control methods, including biological, cultural, chemical, and physical interventions, prioritizing sustainable options.
• Educate clients on best practices for monitoring pest and disease pressure and interpreting field observations.
• Stay abreast of regulatory requirements, new pest control technologies, and emerging threats.
• Analyze data from pest scouting reports and other sources to inform strategic recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Weed Science, or a closely related agricultural discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in crop protection, pest management, or agronomy with a specialization in protection.
• Deep understanding of pest life cycles, disease epidemiology, and weed biology.
• Proven ability to diagnose plant health issues remotely through descriptions and imagery.
• Familiarity with various crop protection products and sustainable management strategies.
• Excellent remote communication, consulting, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Fully remote position offering excellent work-life balance.
• Opportunity to impact sustainable agriculture worldwide.
• Access to resources and networks in the global agricultural community.
• Professional development support and training opportunities.