Junior Agronomist

About the role

SGS, a global inspection, verification, testing and certification company, is hiring a Junior Agronomist in Potchefstroom. The role gathers, interprets and evaluates information on the chemistry, biology and physics of soils to support agricultural production, environmental quality, land remediation and biodiversity, and provides a full range of agricultural services to customers.

Key responsibilities

• Analyze maps of precision-agriculture data such as crop yields, soil characteristics, input applications, terrain and drainage patterns.
• Document and maintain records of precision agriculture information and compile and analyze geospatial data on soil quality, terrain, field productivity, fertilizers and weather.
• Identify sampling sites using geospatial technology for soil tests on nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, pH and micronutrients.
• Compare crop yield maps with soil test data and other information to develop site-specific crop management plans.
• Apply knowledge of government regulations when making agricultural recommendations.
• Provide the full spectrum of agricultural services, including in-season crop inspections, leaf sampling, crop scouting, pre-season soil profile evaluation, tillage recommendations and soil fertility advice.
• Use the Precision Gateway app and train and assist clients in using it.
• Keep up to date with agricultural and environmental developments, attend conferences and give presentations at farmers' days and study groups.
• Adhere to SGS quality and safety requirements and follow the stated authorities on safety hazards, service integrity and formal improvement requests.

Required profile

• B.Sc. Agric / B.Agric / B.Tech in Agriculture; a background in agriculture is an advantage.
• Fluent in Afrikaans and English (speak, read and write).
• Self-motivated, with interpersonal, networking and marketing skills, and a sound interest in agronomy.
• Ability to compile professional reports and present professionally.

Required skills

• Fully computer literate.
• Knowledge of the Precision Gateway app.