Senior Soil Scientist & Land Management Lead – Hybrid

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria, South Africa, seeks a Lead Soil Scientist & Land Management Specialist to guide soil health assessments, land reclamation, and sustainable land management for agricultural and conservation projects. This senior role leads project teams, conducts advanced site investigations, and advises clients on optimizing soil fertility while minimizing environmental impact.

The ideal candidate has a master’s or PhD in a soil-related field, 7+ years of experience, strong GIS skills,

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD degree in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• 7+ years of professional experience in soil science and land management with demonstrated project leadership.
• Extensive knowledge of soil classification, survey methodologies, and laboratory analytical techniques.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing sustainable land management plans.
• Familiarity with environmental regulations and permitting processes relevant to land development and agriculture.
• Strong GIS and spatial analysis skills are highly desirable.
• Excellent report writing, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Experience in consulting or a client-facing role is preferred.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in various environmental conditions is essential.

Responsibilities

• Leading field investigations and laboratory analyses of soil properties, including physical, chemical, and biological characteristics.
• Developing comprehensive soil and land management plans tailored to site conditions and client objectives.
• Conducting environmental impact assessments and soil erosion control planning.
• Providing expert guidance on soil remediation, nutrient management, and water conservation strategies.
• Managing project timelines, budgets, and client communications.
• Mentoring and supervising junior scientists and technicians in field and laboratory work.
• Staying current with advancements in soil science, land use planning, and environmental regulations.
• Preparing high-quality technical reports, proposals and presentations for diverse audiences.
• Collaborating with geologists, hydrologists, and ecologists to ensure integrated project approaches.
• Promoting best practices in sustainable agriculture and land stewardship.

Skills

Soil science expertise

Project leadership

GIS & spatial analysis

Report writing

Client-facing

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Soil Science

Tools

GIS software

Laboratory techniques

Job description

Placements24 in Pretoria, South Africa, seeks a Lead Soil Scientist & Land Management Specialist to guide soil health assessments, land reclamation, and sustainable land management for agricultural and conservation projects. This senior role leads project teams, conducts advanced site investigations, and advises clients on optimizing soil fertility while minimizing environmental impact.

The ideal candidate has a master’s or PhD in a soil-related field, 7+ years of experience, strong GIS skills,