Agronomist-Southern Africa at iSDA

iSDA is looking for someone with extensive field experience in Africa, preferably including progressive responsibilities in the private sector. The role will initially focus on helping us build our portfolio in Southern Africa.

The candidate should have:

• A sound knowledge of scientific principles of agronomy and soil science.
• Good understanding of African farming systems
• Experience conducting on-farm field trials
• Good numerical skills, experience with data capture software and mobile apps, working knowledge of analysis of trial data
• Ability and passion to constantly seek out the sweet spot between scientific accuracy, cost efficiency and depth of impact for end-users
• Excellent people skills, a can-do attitude, and finds joy in problem solving
• A strong customer orientation and entrepreneurial spirit
• Willingness to spend substantial periods of time in several African countries organizing and overseeing field activities
• Ability to synergize with teams across disciplines including digital, decision science, last mile delivery and business development

BALANCE OF DESIRED SKILLS

Field agronomy skills – 60%

Analytical skills – 30%

Strategic product development skills – 10%

QUALIFICATIONS

Candidate with MSc or PhD in agricultural or environmental science or related discipline.

This position would preferably be based in one of our current key target countries in Southern Africa. However, we are a remote-first team, and if the right person wishes to be based elsewhere in Africa, we will consider other base locations. The role will need to operate on the ground across Africa irrespective of the base location.

Candidates with strong profiles will be asked to complete a written task after initial short-listing for first interview and a strategic task prior to second round interview.

iSDA provides pension, insurances and performance-related bonus in addition to a competitive salary based on experience, track record and skills.

To apply please send your letter of application and CV to Monica Cross at [email protected].