Soil Scientist - Land Reclamation Specialist

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and retirement benefits

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Soil Scientist in Polokwane, Limpopo, to lead soil health assessments, reclamation planning, and sustainable land management. You will advise on fertility, ecological function, and remediation strategies, working with stakeholders across environmental projects.

This role requires strong fieldwork capability and data-driven reporting. The ideal candidate holds a Master's or PhD in Soil Science with 6+ years of experience, and will apply advanced soil science

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or closely related field.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in soil science with a focus on land reclamation and soil remediation.
• Strong knowledge of soil physics, chemistry, biology and their interactions.
• Proven experience designing and managing soil reclamation projects.
• Familiarity with South African soils, conditions and regulations in Limpopo.
• Proficiency with soil sampling equipment and laboratory analysis techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil surveys and analyses to assess properties, health and contamination.
• Develop strategies for reclamation and rehabilitation of degraded lands.
• Evaluate soil suitability for agricultural, forestry or conservation uses.
• Oversee applications of soil amendments and conservation measures.
• Monitor progress and effectiveness of reclamation projects.

Skills

Soil chemistry

Soil physics

Soil biology

Environmental assessment

Remediation techniques

Data analysis

Report writing

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Soil Science

Tools

Soil sampling equipment

Laboratory analysis techniques

GIS/Geospatial software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Soil Scientist with expertise in land reclamation to join their environmental services division in Polokwane, Limpopo. This vital role focuses on assessing soil health, developing strategies for restoring degraded lands, and ensuring sustainable land management practices. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in soil chemistry, physics, and biology, coupled with practical experience in environmental assessment and remediation techniques. You will be instrumental in evaluating soil conditions, planning and overseeing reclamation projects, and advising on methods to improve soil fertility and ecological function. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the Limpopo province. We are looking for a scientific professional who can apply advanced soil science principles to solve complex environmental challenges related to land degradation. Your work will directly support responsible land use and ecological restoration efforts in Polokwane.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive soil surveys and analyses to assess soil properties, health, and contamination levels.
• Develop and implement scientifically sound strategies for the reclamation and rehabilitation of degraded or disturbed lands.
• Evaluate the suitability of soils for various agricultural, forestry, or conservation purposes.
• Recommend and oversee the application of soil amendments, fertilizers, and soil conservation measures.
• Monitor the progress and effectiveness of land reclamation projects.
• Advise on sustainable land management practices to prevent soil erosion and degradation.
• Conduct environmental impact assessments related to soil resources.
• Research and stay abreast of advancements in soil science, reclamation techniques, and related environmental technologies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, proposals, and scientific publications.
• Collaborate with government agencies, environmental consultants, and stakeholders on reclamation projects.
• Provide expert technical guidance and support on soil-related issues.
• Ensure compliance with relevant environmental legislation and best practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Soil Science, Environmental Science, Agronomy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in soil science, with a significant focus on land reclamation and soil remediation.
• Strong knowledge of soil physics, chemistry, biology, and their interactions.
• Proven experience in designing and managing soil reclamation projects.
• Familiarity with South African soil types, environmental conditions, and relevant regulations in Limpopo.
• Proficiency in using soil sampling equipment, laboratory analysis techniques, and relevant software.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong report writing and communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to conduct fieldwork in various locations within Polokwane and the broader Limpopo region.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with expertise and experience. Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are provided. Generous annual leave and paid personal days. Opportunities for professional development, including attending scientific conferences and specialized training. Fieldwork allowances and travel expenses covered. Access to advanced laboratory facilities and analytical equipment. A commitment to environmental sustainability and impactful work. Collaborative and supportive team environment. Potential for growth within the organization.