Agronomist

**Position Title**:Agronomist

**Position Type**: Regular - Full-Time

**Position Location**:Delmas

**Requisition ID**: 22932

**PURPOSE OF THE JOB**:
The Agronomist is responsible for identifying opportunities for improving crop yields and delivered quality of process potato and vegetables by farmers to the production plants. To plan and manage trials. To maintain, report, analyze and interpret data on trials so as to recommend new varieties, products and practices for use by farmers. To develop and disseminate technical advice through formal & informal training of the agriculture team and farmers on crop production and quality related issues. To liaise with various stakeholders (seed companies, input suppliers, research institutions, etc.) to obtain seed of potential new varieties, agricultural products and crop intelligence information. Play an integral part in promoting health and safety by employees and contractors at the agronomy research sites.

**RESPONSIBILITIES**:
Execute and write up small plot and farmer (pre
- and semi-commercial) trials on new varieties.
- Update and maintain Variety Data Management (VDM) variety data (measure: yearly NPVD meeting with SLT and global).
- Identify new varieties for testing on local and international level by keeping contact with seed houses, local breeders and McCain variety and seed team (new variety import permit)
- Complete growth studies of new/ existing varieties at Delmas trial site (measure: report annually end June
- Focus on value adding in order to increase yield and quality as well as minimizing risk through the use of technologies like satellite imaginary (NDVI images); soil moisture probes and aphids monitoring.
- Provide technical support to all relevant stakeholders (e.g Field extension team, Growers etc).
- Assist with Regenerative Agriculture information and training needs as determined (measure: attendence lists on training
- Capacitate growers, field officers and other Agric officials through formal/informal training/workshops on relevant challenges during specific farmer days as requested; best management practices; varieties; etc. (measure: Farmer day agenda and attendance list).
- Complete growth studies of new/ existing varieties at Delmas trial site (measure: report annually end June)
- Ensure safety at on-site and off-site operations with permanent and seasonal staff (measure: Safety incidences reported)
- Assist with Regenerative Agriculture information and training needs as determined (measure: attendence lists on training)

**REQUIREMENTS**:

- MSc in Agricultural Science (Crops)
- Valid Drivers License (EB) with mínimal accident history
- Minimum 4 -6 years in agricultural science field of which at least 4 years should be on potato crop production and research related.
- Experience and understanding of variety trials (planting to evaluation)
- Report writing skills in English must be well developed
- Good working knowledge on statistical analysis use and implications in regards to trials
- Professional Natural Scientist with SACNASP (Natural Scientific Professions Act 27 of 2003) registration
- Basic knowledge on variety development
- Understand Plant Breeders Rights and Variety Listing and its impact on potatoes
- Exceptional knowledge and understanding of agricultural production systems and variables, e.g. crops, climate, disease, fertilization, irrigation, soils, etc.
- Knowledge of current and emerging agricultural technologies
- Strong analytical and computer skills
- Willing to travel extensively
- McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. We see value in ensuring we have a diverse, antiracist, inclusive, merit-based, and equitable workplace. As a global family-owned company we are proud to reflect the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that diversity drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger._
- McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials or accessible meeting rooms), please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs._
- Your privacy is important to us. By submitting personal data or information to us, you agree this will be handled in accordance with the _Global Privacy Policy_

**Job Family**:Agriculture
**Division**:South Africa
**Department**:Agronomy
**Location(s)**: ZA - South Africa : Mpumalanga : Delmas

**Company**:McCain Foods (S Africa)