Junior agricultural scientist

Company Description

At Trace & Save, we utilize technology, research, and innovative insights to evaluate and optimize resource usage and farming operations. Our mission is to support sustainable farming practices that improve soil health, promote biodiversity, and ensure environmental and financial sustainability. By providing evidence of improved practices, we aid farmers in demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and achieving associated benefits. Collaborating with stakeholders, we aim to foster socially responsible farming and long-term resilience in agriculture.

Role Description

We're seeking a recent graduate to join as a
Junior Agricultural Scientist
. This is a full-time, on-site role based in Jeffreys Bay. In this position, you will conduct research, analyze agricultural and economic data, assist in implementing sustainable farming practices, and collaborate with farmers to optimize operations. Additionally, you will contribute to creating evidence-based reports that reflect improvements in sustainability and help farmers showcase their progress.

Why Trace & Save

• Work at the intersection of science, data, and practical farm management.
• Gain hands-on exposure to
  SWAN indicators
  and
  biodiversity
  .
• Help deliver measurable improvements in farm performance and environmental outcomes.
• Learn from an experienced team and contribute to applied research that informs better decisions on farm.

Roles & Responsibilities

Core consulting & analysis

• Apply the Trace & Save system (SWAN and biodiversity) to assess on-farm sustainability.
• Collect, manage, analyse, and interpret farm sustainability data and indicators.
• Translate findings into actionable feedback, supporting farmers to improve strategies and outcomes.
• Prepare clear reports, dashboards, and presentations for farmers and stakeholders.

Communication & outreach

• Share insights through presentations and popular articles for farmer and consumer audiences.
• Represent Trace & Save at field days, training sessions, and stakeholder engagements.

Research & learning

• Contribute to continuous improvement of our methods, metrics, and data platform.
• Stay current with relevant literature, tools, and best practices in sustainable agriculture.

Education & Core skills

• Minimum:
  Four-year BSc in Agriculture or three-year BSc in Agriculture with Honours.
• A strong desire to study further (i.e., MSc) while working is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to research, learn, and apply new concepts quickly.
• Comfortable working both independently and in a collaborative team.
• Evidence of initiative and leadership potential.
• Knowledge in Agricultural Production and Agriculture methodologies.
• Strong Analytical Skills for data analysis and evaluation.
• Proficiency in Communication for effective collaboration with farmers and stakeholders.