Agronomist at Farm Managers SA

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, with Horticulture, Crop Science, Agronomy or Soil Science major
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in the agronomy field
• Experience in plant selection process and the development of planting and irrigation schedules, budgets, and timelines
• Proven track record of commercial farming in citrus.
• Strong computer skills, especially MS Office and diagnostic scientific software, to build fertiliser programmes and track fertiliser applications.
• Strong research, decision making, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Awareness of industry trends, technology, and developments
• Listening, verbal, written communication skills and presentation skills.
• Ability to work as an individual as well as in a team context
• Be able to mentor subordinates
• Ability to present technical subject matter to senior management, officials, farmers and other stakeholders

KEY RESPONSIBILITES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO

• Responsible for fertiliser programmes and water management on +/- 1400 ha of citrus
• Responsible for annual budgets of above programmes
• Provide input on farming practices, including irrigation, pruning and yield estimates
• Crop Management: Develop and implement effective crop management strategies to optimise yield, quality and profitability
• Soil Science: Analyse soil composition, fertility, and health to recommend improvements and ensure sustainable soil management practices
• Water Management: Develop and implement efficient irrigation systems and water conservation strategies
• Research and Development: Trial and evaluate new rootstocks, varieties, soil management techniques and irrigation practices
• Consultation and Advisory Services: Provide expert advice to farmers and 3rd party growers on best practices in crop production, soil management, and water conservation
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Collect and analyse data on crop yields, soil health, and water usage, and prepare reports to inform decision-making