Position Title: Agronomist: Regenerative
Position Type: Regular - Full-Time
Position Location: Delmas
Requisition ID: 32912
REGENERATIVE AGRONOMIST
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the positions of Regenerative Agronomist reporting to the Agronomy Manager. The positions will be based in our operation in Delmas.
PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
Potato growers face increasing challenges from climate change and variable weather, rising input costs, and regulatory uncertainty. To face these existential threats to our industry, and secure supply for the future, McCain is partnering with our growers to re-imagine the way we grow potatoes with a commitment to implement regenerative agricultural practices.
McCain defines Regenerative agriculture as an ecosystem-based approach to farming to improve farm resilience, crop yield and quality. The framework includes armoured soils, preferably with living plants; enhanced crop diversity; minimised soil disturbance; reduced toxicity of pesticides; enhanced farm and ecosystem diversity; reduced agro-chemical impact; optimised water use and increased soil organic matter.
While it is a global framework, we are working closely with our farmers to discover what works best on their farms in a way that makes economic and agronomic sense for each country and region.
The McCain Regenerative Agriculture Framework is a farmer-centered framework developed in consultation with growers and other agricultural experts. It is a pathway to progress and guide for our farmers to support their progression toward a more regenerative model.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Sustainability & regenerative agriculture trials to expand knowledge regarding best practices for Regenerative agriculture locally.
Share local and global regenerative agriculture knowledge & implementation.
Ability to build trust and personal connections with a very large range of stakeholder profiles.
Monitoring and keeping record of farmers regenerative progress.
Resource use efficiency improvement (Increase yield, improve quality, reduced input costs, reduced pesticide & fertilizer inputs etc).
Represent McCain SA on Global platform.
Knowledge transfer & technology exchange.
Cross functional support.
Research & innovation/networking.
Training to increase farmers' understanding of the benefits and opportunities of Regenerative agriculture in potato cropping systems.
Research and development regarding regenerative agriculture, such as reduced tillage, pesticide & fumigation reduction, and biological control products.
Developing digital agriculture technologies to ensure farmers have access to better quality data and insights.
Support Agriculture and other McCain divisions regarding regenerative agriculture related information.
Supply/handle crop inputs at fields during the growing season.
General farming activities carry out with tractor during planting season.
Transport potatoes from harvester to loading line.
Do daily inspection checks on the tractor and report deviations to Farm Unit Leader.
Assist with equipment maintenance and repairs in workshop or field.
Ensure that all work is executed within a safe environment.
Keep the work area clean and safe (equipment, tractors, workshop).
REQUIREMENTS:
BSc Degree in relevant Agricultural/regenerative/sustainability sciences.
Valid Tractor Drivers License.
At least 3 years' experience in regenerative/sustainable agriculture sector or related subject.
Experience and understanding of statistical trials (planning, layout, planting to evaluation).
Report writing skills in English must be well developed.
Good working knowledge on statistical analysis and implications in regards to trials.
Good knowledge and understanding of agricultural production systems and variables.
Strong analytical and computer skills.
Possession of a valid driver's license.
Willing to travel extensively.
Strong track record in multi-stakeholders and cross functional project and program management.
Can demonstrate an in-depth understanding of farmer's profiles, needs, ways of working and culture.
Nice to have: Economic viability (ROI) ability; soil science basics; irrigation knowledge; good practical equipment experience; soil health / biodiversity / ecology; basic climate knowledge.
The closing date for applications is 12 November 2024
To apply, please visit: Internal applicants: Employee Online Services > Career and Development; External applicants: www.mccain.com/careers/
McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. We see value in ensuring we have a diverse, antiracist, inclusive, merit-based, and equitable workplace.
McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, 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.
Company: McCain Foods (S Africa)
#J-18808-Ljbffr