Senior Agricultural Scientist - Crop Yield Optimization

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

State-of-the-art laboratory facilities

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leader in sustainable agricultural practices in Johannesburg, seeks a Senior Agricultural Scientist to drive crop yields through advanced research and practical field application. This role is based in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

You will lead soil-health projects, optimize irrigation techniques, develop drought-resistant varieties, manage budgets, mentor junior scientists, and present findings at management meetings and conferences, with strong opportunities for

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in agricultural research and development.
• Proven track record in designing, executing, and analyzing agricultural field trials.
• Strong understanding of statistical analysis software (R, SAS, SPSS).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Willingness to travel to various research sites within and around Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on soil science, plant physiology, and agronomy to identify factors influencing crop yield and quality.
• Design and implement field trials to test new fertilizers, pesticides, and cultivation methods.
• Analyze data from experiments and field observations to draw conclusions and recommend actionable strategies for farmers.
• Develop and manage project plans, including budget, timelines, and resource allocation for research initiatives.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, researchers, and technicians to achieve project objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in agricultural technology and scientific literature.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior staff and stakeholders.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and present findings to management and scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in research activities.
• Contribute to the development of new agricultural products and solutions tailored to local conditions in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Skills

Project leadership

Data analysis

Scientific reporting

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Agronomy / Crop Science / Soil Science

PhD in a related field (preferred)

Tools

R

SAS

SPSS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable agricultural practices, is seeking an accomplished Senior Agricultural Scientist to join their innovative team in Johannesburg, Gauteng . This pivotal role focuses on enhancing crop yields through cutting-edge research and practical application. The successful candidate will contribute to projects aimed at improving soil health, optimizing irrigation techniques, and developing drought-resistant crop varieties. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the agricultural landscape of South Africa and beyond, working within a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. The position requires a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on field experience, contributing to a more efficient and environmentally sound agricultural future.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on soil science, plant physiology, and agronomy to identify factors influencing crop yield and quality.
• Design and implement field trials to test new fertilizers, pesticides, and cultivation methods.
• Analyze data from experiments and field observations to draw conclusions and recommend actionable strategies for farmers.
• Develop and manage project plans, including budget, timelines, and resource allocation for research initiatives.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of agronomists, researchers, and technicians to achieve project objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in agricultural technology and scientific literature.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior staff and stakeholders.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and present findings to management and scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in research activities.
• Contribute to the development of new agricultural products and solutions tailored to local conditions in Johannesburg, Gauteng .

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a related agricultural field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in agricultural research and development.
• Proven track record in designing, executing, and analyzing agricultural field trials.
• Strong understanding of statistical analysis software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS).
• Excellent knowledge of South African agricultural challenges and opportunities.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior scientists.
• Proficiency in data management and scientific reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced research environment.
• Willingness to travel to various research sites within and around Johannesburg, Gauteng as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous provident fund. Employees benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and further academic support. We provide a supportive work environment with opportunities for career advancement within a leading agricultural research organization. Additionally, a relocation assistance package may be available for candidates relocating to Johannesburg, Gauteng . Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and field equipment is standard.