Senior Agronomist - Sustainable Crop Management

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

R&D facilities

Travel allowance

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agronomist to lead crop management strategies in the Midrand region. You will drive field trials, apply precision agriculture techniques and advise farming communities to boost yield and soil health.

The role requires a strong background in agronomy, 5–7 years experience, and ability to lead projects while collaborating with research teams and farm managers. Travel within Gauteng is expected.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or related discipline.
• 5–7 years of progressive experience in agronomy with crop production focus.
• Proven expertise in experimental design, data analysis and statistical software.
• Deep knowledge of South African agricultural practices, soils and climate.
• Experience with precision agriculture technologies and farm management software.
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills; leadership capability.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute agronomic plans for different crops to optimise yield and resource use.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate new varieties, fertilizers and pest control methods.
• Provide expert technical training to farm managers, agronomists and extension workers.
• Monitor crop health, soils and environmental factors; implement mitigation strategies.
• Analyze data from trials to inform decisions and adjust strategies.
• Promote sustainable agriculture, water conservation and integrated pest management.
• Prepare detailed reports for senior management on findings and outcomes.
• Stay updated on advances in agronomy and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Experiment design

Data analysis

Leadership

Communication

Education

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

Tools

Precision agriculture technologies

Farm management software

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural innovator seeking a highly skilled Senior Agronomist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role will focus on developing and implementing advanced crop management strategies aimed at enhancing yield, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable farming practices within the Midrand region and surrounding agricultural hubs. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving research and development initiatives, providing expert advice to farming communities, and ensuring the adoption of cutting‑edge agronomic techniques. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of agriculture in South Africa, contributing to food security and environmental stewardship. You will work closely with research teams and farm managers to innovate and adapt practices for diverse cropping systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive agronomic plans for various crops, focusing on yield optimization and resource efficiency.
• Conduct field trials and experiments to evaluate new crop varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods.
• Provide expert technical consultation and training to farm managers, agronomists, and agricultural extension workers.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors, identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Analyze data from field operations and research trials to inform decision‑making and strategy adjustments.
• Promote and implement sustainable agriculture principles, including water conservation, integrated pest management, and soil conservation techniques.
• Prepare detailed reports on research findings, field performance, and project outcomes for senior management.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in agronomy, agricultural technology, and relevant regulations.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a related agricultural discipline.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in agronomy, with a strong emphasis on crop production and management.
• Proven expertise in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical software.
• In‑depth knowledge of South African agricultural practices, soil types, and climate conditions.
• Experience with precision agriculture technologies and farm management software is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Gauteng province and occasionally beyond.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a generous performance‑based bonus, comprehensive medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• You will be part of a forward‑thinking organization committed to employee growth and well‑being.
• The role provides access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and the chance to collaborate with industry leaders.
• Employees also benefit from subsidized travel and ongoing training programs designed to keep skills at the forefront of the industry.
• We encourage a healthy work‑life balance and foster a collaborative team environment.