Soil Scientist - Agricultural Land Management

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle for fieldwork and site

Competitive salary and bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Comprehensive medical aid and pension

Generous annual leave

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly qualified Soil Scientist to join a leading agricultural consultancy in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will conduct field surveys, collect samples, and perform detailed lab analyses to assess soil health and fertility across diverse landscapes.

Your findings will guide tailored land-management recommendations for farmers and land managers. The role requires a strong scientific background, hands-on sampling experience, and the ability to translate complex data into

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in soil analysis, land assessment, and agricultural soil management.
• Strong knowledge of soil chemistry, physics, and biology.
• Experience with soil sampling techniques and lab analyses.
• Familiarity with GIS software and soil data interpretation tools.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong report writing and presentation abilities.
• Willingness to travel to client sites around Vereeniging, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field soil surveys, collect soil samples, and perform laboratory analyses.
• Interpret soil test results including pH, nutrients, organic matter, and texture.
• Develop soil management plans and fertilization recommendations.
• Assess erosion risks and propose conservation strategies.
• Advise on soil amendments, tillage practices, and fertilization programs.
• Utilize GIS for land evaluation and planning.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and client recommendations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and environmental agencies.
• Contribute to research on soil health and sustainability.
• Stay current with soil science advancements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Critical thinking

Problem solving

Report writing

Presentation skills

Independent work

Willingness to travel

Education

Master's degree in Soil Science

PhD in Soil Science

Tools

GIS software

Soil data interpretation tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural consultancy firm, is seeking a highly qualified Soil Scientist to join their team in **Vereeniging, Gauteng**. This role is critical for assessing, managing, and improving soil health and fertility across diverse agricultural landscapes. You will be responsible for conducting detailed soil analyses, interpreting complex data, and developing tailored recommendations for sustainable land management practices. Your expertise will guide clients in optimizing soil nutrient levels, enhancing water retention, preventing erosion, and improving overall crop productivity. The position requires a strong scientific background, hands-on experience in soil sampling and analysis, and the ability to translate technical findings into practical, actionable advice for farmers and land managers. We are looking for an individual passionate about soil science and its vital role in modern agriculture within the **Vereeniging, Gauteng** area. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to sustainable farming initiatives and work with a leading organization in the agricultural sector. Your commitment to soil conservation will be highly valued. The role involves significant fieldwork and client interaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field soil surveys, collect soil samples, and perform detailed laboratory analyses.


• Interpret soil test results, including nutrient levels, pH, organic matter content, and soil texture.


• Develop comprehensive soil management plans and fertility recommendations for various crops and land uses.


• Assess soil erosion risks and propose effective conservation strategies.


• Advise clients on soil amendment applications, fertilization programs, and tillage practices.


• Utilize soil mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for land evaluation and planning.


• Stay current with advancements in soil science, soil health research, and sustainable land management techniques.


• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for clients.


• Collaborate with agronomists, farmers, and environmental agencies on land management projects.


• Contribute to research initiatives focused on soil health and agricultural sustainability.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.


• Minimum of 5 years of experience in soil analysis, land assessment, and agricultural soil management.


• In-depth knowledge of soil chemistry, physics, and biology.


• Proven experience with various soil sampling techniques and laboratory analysis methods.


• Familiarity with GIS software and soil data interpretation tools.


• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.


• Strong report writing and presentation abilities.


• Ability to work independently and conduct fieldwork in various environmental conditions.


• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to client sites in and around **Vereeniging, Gauteng**.


• Commitment to promoting sustainable land stewardship.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.


• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions.


• Opportunities for continued professional education and conference attendance.


• Company vehicle for fieldwork and client visits.


• Generous annual leave and other paid time off.


• Exposure to diverse agricultural projects and challenging soil issues.


• A supportive and expert team environment.


• Contribution to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.


• Career advancement opportunities within a reputable consultancy.


• Work-life balance with structured working hours.