Senior Horticultural Agronomist

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Horticultural Agronomist to lead field trials, analyze soil and plant tissue, and develop fertilization and irrigation strategies for diverse horticultural crops in Midrand, Gauteng.

The role combines on-site fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and collaboration with research teams to drive sustainable farming innovations and crop yield improvements.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in agronomic research and field trials.
• Strong data collection and statistical analysis skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field trials to evaluate crop varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods.
• Analyze soil, water, and plant tissue to diagnose issues and guide interventions.
• Develop customized fertilization and irrigation plans for horticultural crops.
• Provide expert agronomic advice to farm managers and stakeholders.
• Monitor crop growth and propose proactive solutions for productivity.
• Research and adopt sustainable horticultural technologies and practices.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on product development and testing.
• Prepare detailed trial reports and actionable recommendations.
• Stay updated on agriculture regulations and advances.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Agronomy/Horticulture/Plant Science

Tools

GIS & remote sensing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the agricultural technology sector, is seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Horticultural Agronomist to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves contributing to cutting-edge research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing crop yields, improving plant health, and promoting sustainable farming practices within various horticultural applications. The successful candidate will work on projects that leverage advanced agronomic principles and data-driven insights to solve complex challenges faced by modern agriculture. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing industry and contribute to the future of food production. The role will involve a mix of on-site fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and collaborative team meetings, offering a diverse and engaging work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive field trials and experiments to evaluate new crop varieties, fertilizers, and pest control methods.
• Analyze soil, water, and plant tissue samples to diagnose nutrient deficiencies, diseases, and other agronomic issues.
• Develop and implement customized fertilization and irrigation strategies for a variety of horticultural crops.
• Provide expert agronomic advice and technical support to farm managers and agricultural stakeholders.
• Monitor crop growth, identify potential problems, and recommend proactive solutions to ensure optimal health and productivity.
• Research and adopt emerging technologies and sustainable practices in horticulture.
• Collaborate with research teams on product development and efficacy testing.
• Prepare detailed reports on trial results, findings, and recommendations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and regulatory changes in the agriculture industry.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agronomy, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in agronomic research, field trials, or crop management, with a strong focus on horticultural crops.
• Proven experience in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of soil science, plant physiology, and integrated pest management (IPM).
• Familiarity with GIS and remote sensing technologies for agricultural applications is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Proficiency in relevant agronomic software and data management tools.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various field sites within Gauteng and surrounding areas.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive health insurance.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within a forward-thinking organization.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and a collaborative work environment fosters innovation and growth.
• We also provide a supportive team culture and the chance to contribute to impactful agricultural solutions.