Senior Agronomist - Crop Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health insurance coverage

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Remote work flexibility

Travel stipends for essential visits

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agronomist to remotely serve clients across Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, and beyond. The role requires deep crop science expertise, soil health understanding, and advanced cultivation techniques to diagnose challenges and develop tailored crop management strategies.

You will build relationships with farmers, educate on best practices, and guide adoption of new technologies, while maintaining a flexible remote workload and contributing to sustainable farming in

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of practical experience as an agronomist, with a proven track record in crop optimization.
• Strong knowledge of plant physiology, soil chemistry, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with remote sensing and GIS applications in agriculture is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities with data interpretation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to explain technical concepts clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage a remote workload.
• Proficiency in relevant agronomic software and databases.
• Familiarity with the Eastern Cape region's agricultural landscape is advantageous.
• Valid driver's license for occasional site visits.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field assessments of crop health, soil conditions, and nutrient status.
• Develop science-based crop management plans including fertilization and irrigation strategies.
• Provide guidance on seed selection, planting density, and cultivation techniques.
• Analyze soil, tissue, and water samples for nutrient management.
• Stay updated on research, technologies, and regulatory changes in agronomy.
• Educate farmers and farm managers on best practices and technologies.
• Collaborate with research institutions to advance knowledge.
• Prepare reports and technical recommendations for clients.
• Contribute to sustainable farming initiatives.
• Manage client relationships and ensure service satisfaction.

Skills

Crop science knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Independent work

Remote work capability

GIS/Remote sensing familiarity

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, or Soil Science

Tools

GIS software

Remote sensing tools

Agronomic databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural consultancy focused on maximizing crop potential through scientific innovation, is looking for a distinguished Senior Agronomist to join their team, remotely serving clients across the Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape region and beyond. This senior position requires a deep understanding of crop science, soil health, and advanced cultivation techniques to provide expert advice and solutions to enhance farm productivity and sustainability. You will be instrumental in diagnosing complex agronomic challenges, developing tailored crop management strategies, and guiding farmers in adopting best practices and new technologies. This role offers the unique advantage of remote work, allowing for flexibility while maintaining a significant impact on agricultural success in the Eastern Cape and surrounding areas. You will serve as a key technical advisor, building strong relationships with a diverse client base.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed field assessments and diagnostic evaluations of crop health, soil conditions, and nutrient status.
• Develop and recommend science-based crop management plans, including fertilization, irrigation, pest and disease control strategies.
• Provide expert advice on seed selection, planting density, and cultivation techniques to optimize yield and quality.
• Analyze soil, tissue, and water samples to provide precise nutrient management recommendations.
• Stay current with the latest research, technologies, and regulatory changes impacting agronomy and crop production.
• Educate and train farmers and farm managers on effective agronomic practices and the use of relevant technologies.
• Collaborate with research institutions and other agricultural professionals to advance knowledge and practices.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and technical recommendations for clients.
• Assist in the development and implementation of sustainable farming initiatives.
• Manage client relationships and ensure satisfaction with provided agronomic services.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a closely related agricultural field.
• Minimum of 7 years of practical experience as an agronomist, with a proven track record in crop optimization.
• Extensive knowledge of plant physiology, soil chemistry, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Experience with remote sensing and GIS applications in agriculture is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage a remote workload effectively.
• Proficiency in relevant agronomic software and databases.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and specific crop challenges in the Eastern Cape region is advantageous.
• Valid driver's license for occasional site visits.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with your expertise and remote working capabilities.
• In addition to the salary, benefits include health insurance coverage, a retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in the field of agronomy.
• The flexibility of a remote position allows for excellent work-life balance.
• You will be part of an innovative and supportive team that values scientific rigor and practical application.
• This role provides the opportunity to significantly influence agricultural practices within the productive Port Elizabeth region and contribute to sustainable food production.
• We also offer a generous annual leave policy and potential for travel stipends for essential client visits.