Senior Soil Scientist: Land Management & Conservation Lead

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Soil Scientist to lead land management and conservation initiatives. You will oversee field surveys, soil data interpretation, and develop practical recommendations for clients in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.

The role requires a PhD in Soil Science, 7+ years of experience, strong project leadership, GIS proficiency, and independent work with remote collaboration.

Qualifications

• PhD in Soil Science, Soil Chemistry, Soil Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in soil science focusing on land management, conservation and rehabilitation.
• Experience managing complex environmental projects and leading technical teams.
• Familiarity with soil classification systems (WRB, USDA) and GIS mapping.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth soil surveys, sampling and analysis using advanced methodologies.
• Interpret soil data to assess land capability and environmental risks.
• Develop and implement soil conservation and land management plans.
• Advise clients on soil health, erosion control, and land rehabilitation.
• Prepare detailed reports, EIAs and scientific publications.
• Manage soil science projects, including budgeting and timelines.
• Mentor junior soil scientists and technicians.
• Stay current with research in soil science and ecological restoration.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including geologists and engineers.
• Represent the company in client meetings and workshops.

Skills

Soil science expertise

Project leadership

Technical reporting

Mentoring juniors

Education

PhD in Soil Science or related field

Tools

GIS mapping

Soil analysis techniques

Job description

Placements24 in Pretoria, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Soil Scientist to lead land management and conservation initiatives. You will oversee field surveys, soil data interpretation, and develop practical recommendations for clients in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.

The role requires a PhD in Soil Science, 7+ years of experience, strong project leadership, GIS proficiency, and independent work with remote collaboration.