CROPS AGRONOMIST

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Applications from suitably qualified individuals are invited for the above position at the Eswatini Sugar Technical Services based at Technical Services in Simunye reporting to the Research Manager. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and implementing agronomy research and extension activities aimed at improving crop productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

 The Job:

•  Identify and assess agronomic challenges in collaboration with Extension Officers, growers, and estate agronomy departments, and recommend practical and sustainable solutions.
• Plan, design, implement, and monitor agronomy field trials using standard experimental procedures.
• Analyse trial data, conduct statistical evaluations, interpret findings, and prepare technical reports and recommendations.
• Communicate research findings and agronomic information through reports, presentations, newsletters, and technical publications.
• Provide technical advice to growers on fertilizer application, variety selection, crop management practices, and chemical ripener use.
• Liaise with estate agronomy and field staff to ensure efficient management and maintenance of agronomy trials.
• Maintain accurate databases and records for agronomy trials, proposals, and research results.
• Coordinate the production and distribution of the Extension quarterly newsletter.
• Manage agronomy equipment and ensure proper maintenance and operational readiness.
• Prepare annual work plans and budgets for agronomy activities and monitor expenditure against approved budgets.
• Supervise and monitor the performance of agronomy staff, including conducting periodic performance evaluations.

 Key Requirements: The ideal candidate should have the following minimum attributes: Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Agriculture, or a related field.

• A postgraduate qualification in Agronomy or related discipline will be an added advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience in agronomy research, crop production, or agricultural extension services.
• Experience in field trial design, data analysis, and report writing.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable crop production practices and agricultural research methodologies.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and computer applications relevant to agronomy work.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and report-writing abilities.
• Good planning, organisational, and project management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with growers, researchers, and field staff.
• Strong leadership and supervisory capabilities.
• Attention to detail and ability to work independently.

Remuneration:

Commensurate with incumbent’s level of expertise and experience.

Applications, including detailed curriculum vitae, should be emailed to recruitment@eswatinisugar.co.sz. All applications should be received by 5 June 2026. The detailed Job Description is available on the ESA website : https://esa.co.sz/wp-content/uploads/Job-description-Crops-Agronomist.pdf

(Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted).