Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist - Data Analysis

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Remote work setup stipend

Flexible hours

Professional growth

Home office equipment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist to join a fully remote team in South Africa. The role focuses on analyzing data from GPS-guided machinery, drones, and soil sensors to optimize yields and resource use.

You will develop prescriptions, maps, and zone definitions, while collaborating with farmers and agronomists to deliver actionable insights and remote support. A strong background in data science, GIS, and agronomy is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, or Data Science.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in precision agriculture, farm management, or agricultural data analysis.
• Proficiency in precision agriculture software and GIS platforms like ArcGIS/QGIS.

Responsibilities

• Analyze large datasets from precision farming equipment (yield monitors, soil sensors, drone data).
• Develop data-driven recommendations for variable rate applications of fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds.
• Create farm management zones and prescription maps for optimized land use.
• Interpret satellite imagery and drone data to monitor crop health and predict yields.
• Collaborate with farmers and agronomists to translate data into practical solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and training on precision agriculture software and hardware.
• Stay current with advancements in precision agriculture technologies and data analytics.
• Develop reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations.
• Contribute to development of proprietary data analysis tools and platforms.
• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, data analysis, and recommendations.

Skills

Precision farming

Data analysis

GIS

Python

R

Remote work

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy

Geomatics

Data Science

Master's degree a plus

Tools

John Deere Operations Center

Trimble Ag Software

Climate FieldView

ArcGIS

QGIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is revolutionizing agriculture through technology and is seeking a skilled Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist to join their fully remote team. This position is ideal for an individual passionate about leveraging data to optimize farm operations and promote sustainable practices across various agricultural landscapes. You will be working from the comfort of your own home, collaborating with farmers and agronomists across South Africa and potentially beyond. Your primary focus will be on analyzing data generated from precision agriculture technologies—such as GPS-guided machinery, drones, and sensors—to provide actionable insights for improved crop yields, resource efficiency, and environmental management. This is a ground-breaking opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking company that is shaping the future of farming with a remote-first approach, offering unparalleled flexibility and a chance to impact the agricultural sector significantly.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze large datasets from precision farming equipment, including yield monitors, soil sensors, and aerial imagery.
• Develop data-driven recommendations for variable rate application of fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds.
• Create detailed farm management zones and prescription maps for optimized land use.
• Interpret satellite imagery and drone data to monitor crop health, identify stress factors, and predict yields.
• Collaborate with clients (farmers, agronomists) to understand their needs and translate data into practical solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and training on precision agriculture software and hardware.
• Stay current with advancements in precision agriculture technologies, data analytics, and remote sensing.
• Develop reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of proprietary data analysis tools and platforms.
• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, data analysis, and recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Data Science, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in precision agriculture, farm management, or agricultural data analysis.
• Proficiency in using precision agriculture software (e.g., John Deere Operations Center, Trimble Ag Software, Climate FieldView) and GIS platforms (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS).
• Strong understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and agronomic principles.
• Expertise in analyzing remote sensing data (satellite imagery, drone data) and interpreting results.
• Excellent data manipulation and visualization skills using tools like R, Python, or advanced Excel.
• Superb communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly to a non-technical audience.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable high-speed internet access.
• Passion for innovation in agriculture and a commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package designed for remote work.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field.
• Investment in remote work technologies and home office setup.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones and personal schedules.
• The ability to work from anywhere within the designated region, contributing to a strong work-life balance.
• Be part of a collaborative and innovative team driving the future of agriculture remotely.