Soil Scientist - Environmental & Agricultural Consulting

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a qualified Soil Scientist to join our environmental and agricultural consulting team. You will conduct soil assessments, interpret results, and deliver practical recommendations for land management and sustainability.

The ideal candidate has a Master's or Ph.D. in Soil Science or a related field, at least 5 years of experience, strong analytical and technical writing skills, and willingness to travel across the Free State.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in soil analysis, characterization, and interpretation.
• Proficiency in laboratory analytical techniques for soil properties.
• Experience with environmental consulting or agricultural extension is desirable.
• Knowledge of soil classification systems (e.g., USDA, FAO).
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations, including soil sampling and characterization.
• Perform laboratory analysis of soil samples for physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Interpret soil test results and provide expert recommendations for soil fertility management, crop production, and land use.
• Assess soil contamination and develop remediation strategies.
• Conduct environmental impact assessments related to soil and land use.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, proposals, and presentations for clients.
• Advise clients on best management practices for soil conservation and erosion control.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on diverse environmental and agricultural projects.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science, analytical techniques, and relevant regulations.
• Ensure quality control and accuracy in all analytical and reporting processes.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Technical writing

Communication

Teamwork

Travel flexibility

Education

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

Tools

GIS

Excel

Statistical software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a respected environmental and agricultural consulting firm, is seeking a qualified Soil Scientist to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role involves conducting detailed soil assessments, providing expert analysis, and developing practical recommendations for land management, agricultural sustainability, and environmental remediation projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex soil data into actionable insights for clients. You will contribute to projects aimed at improving soil health, optimizing agricultural productivity, and ensuring environmental compliance. This is a key position for an individual passionate about soil science and its application in diverse fields within the Free State and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field investigations, including soil sampling and characterization.
• Perform laboratory analysis of soil samples for physical, chemical, and biological properties.
• Interpret soil test results and provide expert recommendations for soil fertility management, crop production, and land use.
• Assess soil contamination and develop remediation strategies.
• Conduct environmental impact assessments related to soil and land use.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, proposals, and presentations for clients.
• Advise clients on best management practices for soil conservation and erosion control.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on diverse environmental and agricultural projects.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science, analytical techniques, and relevant regulations.
• Ensure quality control and accuracy in all analytical and reporting processes.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in soil analysis, characterization, and interpretation.
• Proficiency in laboratory analytical techniques for soil properties.
• Experience with environmental consulting or agricultural extension services is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of soil classification systems (e.g., USDA, FAO).
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to travel to project sites within Bloemfontein and the wider Free State region.
• Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis and reporting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary reflecting expertise.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement fund contribution.
• Paid time off and sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Exposure to a wide range of interesting and challenging projects.
• Supportive and collegial work environment.