Senior Soil Scientist - Remote

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work environment

Global collaboration opportunities

Professional development funding

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Soil Scientist for a fully remote R&D role focused on soil health, nutrient cycling, and soil carbon dynamics. You will design and lead complex field and laboratory projects, collaborating with international teams to translate findings into practical soil-management strategies.

The position emphasizes independent work, rigorous scientific methods, and clear communication of results to technical and non-technical audiences, with a global impact on sustainable

Qualifications

• PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 8+ years post-doctoral research in soil science with agricultural focus.
• Expertise in soil chemistry, physics, and biology, incl. nutrient management or soil carbon.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, experimental design, and data visualization (R, SAS, Python).
• Experience with lab methods and soil characterization.
• GIS and remote sensing applications in soil science.
• Excellent written and oral communication; strong scientific writing.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage field and lab soil research projects.
• Analyze soil samples and properties (physical, chemical, biological).
• Analyze large datasets using statistical methods and models.
• Develop models for nutrient management and soil carbon dynamics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on research initiatives.
• Publish scientific papers and grant proposals.
• Present findings at conferences and to industry stakeholders.
• Provide expert soil consultations to internal and external partners.

Skills

Soil chemistry

Soil physics

Soil biology

Nutrient management

Statistical analysis

GIS & remote sensing

Scientific writing

Education

PhD in Soil Science / related field

Tools

R

SAS

Python

GIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in sustainable agricultural innovation, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Soil Scientist to join their fully remote research and development team. This role is critical in advancing our understanding of soil health, nutrient cycling, and soil-based carbon sequestration across diverse global agricultural systems. You will be responsible for designing and conducting complex soil science research projects, analyzing extensive datasets, and translating findings into practical, actionable recommendations for improving soil fertility and environmental sustainability. As a remote-first professional, you will collaborate with an international team of scientists, agronomists, and engineers, utilizing virtual collaboration tools to drive innovation. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work from your preferred location while contributing to cutting-edge research that impacts food security and climate resilience. We are looking for an independent, analytical thinker with a proven track record in soil science research and a passion for applying scientific knowledge to real-world agricultural challenges. Your expertise will be key in developing and validating new approaches to soil management and conservation. The role demands a high level of scientific rigor and the ability to communicate complex findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage field and laboratory research projects focused on soil science and fertility.
• Conduct detailed soil sampling, characterization, and analysis, including physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets using statistical software and modeling techniques.
• Develop and refine models for nutrient management, soil carbon dynamics, and water retention.
• Investigate the impact of agricultural practices on soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and methodologies for soil assessment and improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including agronomists and environmental scientists, on integrated research initiatives.
• Author scientific publications, technical reports, and grant proposals.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences and to industry stakeholders virtually.
• Provide expert consultation on soil-related issues to internal teams and external partners.

Requirements

• PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in soil science, with a strong focus on agricultural applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in soil chemistry, physics, and biology, with a specialization in nutrient management or soil carbon.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, experimental design, and data visualization tools (e.g., R, SAS, Python).
• Experience with laboratory analytical techniques and soil characterization methods.
• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing applications in soil science.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including strong scientific writing capabilities.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage complex research projects, and deliver results in a remote setting.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a critical, analytical mindset.
• Experience working with diverse soil types and agricultural systems, particularly relevant to regions like Gauteng .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive compensation package, reflecting the senior nature of this role.
• As a fully remote position, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility in your work location and schedule, promoting an optimal work-life balance.
• We provide generous opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences, workshops, and continuing education.
• You will be part of an innovative and collaborative global team, contributing to significant advancements in agricultural sustainability and climate change mitigation.
• Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, retirement plan contributions, and ample paid time off.
• This role offers the chance to lead impactful research and influence the future of soil management in agriculture .
• We invest in our employees' growth and provide the resources needed to excel in a dynamic, virtual work environment.
• Join our mission-driven organization and make a difference from anywhere.