About the Opportunity
Driscoll's, the global Berry company, is looking for an Agronomist to be based in the Limpopo / Mpumalanga area of South Africa.
We need your expertise to maximize the potential of our proprietary genetics and engaging with independent growers creating enterprise value.
Your main objective will be to provide technical advice to growers, understanding and extending production methods, cycles and new technologies. Working with growers to map, facilitate, track and interpret on-farm trials. Additionally, you will need to evaluate variety performance and feasibility in new and existing growing regions and production systems.
Responsibilities
Core responsibilities include but are not limited to :
- Build complex fertiliser programs and irrigation schedules for both soil and substrate blueberry production systems.
- Disciplined approach to agronomic recommendations to growers, including visit reports and follow up action steps.
- Ability to influence grower agronomic practices.
- Solve current and new pest and disease challenges for growers across different countries and climates.
- Utilise a network of internal and external resources to approach agronomic challenges through critical thinking.
- Plan and manage budgets and prioritizing expenditure within set guidelines.
Candidate Profile
Candidate Requirements
A bachelor’s degree (with at least 8 years of experience) in Agronomy, Horticulture, Soil Science, Plant pathology, Entomology or Agriculture, with comprehensive understanding of horticulture, plant physiology and plant genetics.Knowledge of the agronomic practices relating to horticultural crops from seedling to harvesting.Berry production knowledge including direct experience with soft fruit production would be highly desirable.Practical experience of farming practices including equipment operation and management, irrigation management, and pest control.Knowledge and experience of agricultural research would be an added advantage.Interpersonal SkillsCommunication SkillsKeen understanding and appreciation of integrated pest management.Feel comfortable working in field, office, and corporate settings.Willing to travel to other farming locations with the ability to travel internationally being compulsory.Valid driver's license and the ability to be covered under company-sponsored vehicle insurance program are also required.Demonstrated proficiency with computer programs (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook).Open attitude to learn new systems and new technologies in farming, to enable us to grow more berries with less resources.Collaborative attitude with the highest level of service.English as primary language in the work place with Afrikaans as a major benefit as well as any other languages.