Soil Scientist - Land Management

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Soil Scientist to join our environmental consultancy in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will conduct soil analyses, develop land management strategies, and advise on sustainable land use for agricultural and conservation projects.

The role is on-site with substantial fieldwork and client consultations across Mpumalanga. A strong scientific background and at least five years of hands-on experience are essential to deliver high-quality soil health assessments and

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional soil science experience in land assessment or related research.
• Proven soil sampling, lab data interpretation, and field assessment skills.
• Strong understanding of soil chemistry, physics, and biology and their effect on plant growth.
• Experience with soil conservation and land management strategies.
• GIS experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys and collect soil samples for analysis.
• Coordinate laboratory analyses or work with external labs.
• Interpret soil data to assess fertility and land-use suitability.
• Develop soil management plans to improve structure and nutrient content.
• Advise on erosion control and sustainable tillage practices.
• Prepare technical reports, maps, and client recommendations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, engineers, and planners on projects.
• Keep up to date with soil science and conservation techniques.

Skills

Soil sampling

Data interpretation

GIS

Report writing

Analytical thinking

Independence

Education

Master's or PhD in Soil Science

Tools

GIS software (ArcGIS)

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking an experienced Soil Scientist to join their environmental consultancy team, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is crucial for assessing soil health, developing land management strategies, and advising on sustainable land use practices for agricultural and conservation projects. You will conduct detailed soil analyses, interpret data, and provide expert recommendations to optimize soil fertility, prevent erosion, and enhance land productivity. This position requires a strong scientific background, practical field experience, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The role is on-site, involving significant fieldwork and client consultations within the Mpumalanga region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field surveys and collect soil samples for physical, chemical, and biological analysis.
• Perform laboratory analysis of soil samples or coordinate with external laboratories.
• Interpret soil analysis data to assess soil fertility, health, and suitability for various land uses.
• Develop soil management plans to improve soil structure, nutrient content, and water holding capacity.
• Advise on best practices for soil conservation, including erosion control and sustainable tillage methods.
• Assess the impact of land use and agricultural practices on soil health and recommend remediation strategies.
• Provide expert advice on land reclamation and rehabilitation projects.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, maps, and recommendations for clients.
• Collaborate with agronomists, environmental engineers, and land planners on integrated projects.
• Stay current with advancements in soil science, land management, and conservation techniques.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in soil science, land assessment, or agricultural research.
• Proven expertise in soil sampling techniques, laboratory analysis interpretation, and field assessment.
• Strong understanding of soil chemistry, physics, biology, and their interactions with plant growth and the environment.
• Experience in developing and implementing soil conservation and land management strategies.
• Proficiency in using GIS software for spatial analysis and mapping is a plus.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage fieldwork logistics effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel and work in diverse field conditions within Mpumalanga .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and participation in relevant industry conferences are provided.
• Work within a reputable environmental consultancy firm dedicated to sustainable land use.
• Contribute to important projects that promote soil health and environmental sustainability in South Africa .