Senior Soil Scientist - Agricultural Land Management

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900.000 - 1.300.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life assurance

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Soil Scientist in Stellenbosch to lead soil health initiatives and advisory services for farms, vineyards, and government agencies. You will conduct field and lab research, interpret complex soil data, and provide actionable recommendations to stakeholders in the Western Cape.

The role emphasizes development and implementation of sustainable land-use strategies, with opportunities to author reports and participate in funding proposals.

Qualifikationen

• PhD in Soil Science or closely related field required.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive soil science experience in research and/or applied management.
• Expertise in soil chemistry, physics and biology, with focus on fertility and nutrient cycling.

Aufgaben

• Lead comprehensive soil surveys and land assessment.
• Perform laboratory analyses to determine soil properties.
• Develop soil fertility plans and nutrient management strategies.
• Evaluate effects of agricultural practices on soil health and productivity.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on water, crop physiology and environment.

Kenntnisse

Soil fertility management

GIS analysis

Scientific writing

Leadership & project management

Field & lab research

Ausbildung

PhD in Soil Science

Tools

ArcGIS

QGIS

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural research institution and consultancy, is seeking a Senior Soil Scientist to lead critical research and provide expert advisory services. This role, based in the renowned wine-producing region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape , will focus on soil health, fertility management, and sustainable land use practices. The successful candidate will play a vital role in developing and implementing strategies to enhance soil productivity, minimize environmental impact, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability. You will conduct in-depth field and laboratory research, interpret complex soil data, and provide actionable recommendations to a diverse range of agricultural stakeholders, including large-scale farms, vineyards, and government agencies. This is an opportunity to contribute significantly to the understanding and management of vital soil resources in a globally recognized agricultural area.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil surveys, characterization, and classification for agricultural land assessment.
• Perform detailed laboratory analyses of soil samples to determine physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Develop and implement soil fertility management plans, including fertilizer recommendations and nutrient management strategies.
• Research and evaluate the impact of different agricultural practices (e.g., cover cropping, reduced tillage, organic amendments) on soil health and productivity.
• Investigate soil erosion processes and develop strategies for soil conservation and land rehabilitation.
• Utilize GIS and remote sensing technologies for soil mapping and spatial data analysis.
• Provide expert advice and technical support to farmers, agricultural consultants, and other clients on soil-related issues.
• Develop and deliver training programs and workshops on soil science and sustainable land management.
• Author scientific publications, technical reports and grant proposals.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams on projects related to water management, crop physiology, and environmental science.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science, analytical techniques, and sustainable agriculture.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in soil science research and/or applied soil management, with a strong emphasis end must role - emphasis on agricultural contexts.
• Demonstrated expertise in soil chemistry, physics, and biology, with a specialization in soil fertility and nutrient cycling.
• Proficiency in advanced laboratory analytical techniques for soil characterization.
• Strong skills in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and experience with remote sensing data interpretation.
• Proven ability to design and conduct field and laboratory experiments, analyze data, and interpret results.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including scientific writing and presentation abilities.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and the ability to manage research projects effectively.
• Experience in providing technical consultation and training is highly desirable.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various locations within the Western Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with the seniority and expertise required for this role, complemented by performance-based incentives. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical aid, a provident fund, and life assurance. Significant opportunities for continuous professional development are provided, including funding for conferences, workshops, and advanced training. This position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of on-site research and collaboration at our Stellenbosch facilities and remote work for data analysis and report writing. Join a leading organization dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture through expert soil science.