Agricultural Research Analyst

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Our client, a leader in the grain and oilseeds trading environment, is looking for a driven and analytical Agricultural Research Analyst to join their research and trading support team. This role requires strong agricultural economics knowledge, weather and crop-analysis capability, and hands-on experience conducting crop tours and interpreting field data.

You will play a key role in supporting trading decisions through data analysis, weather modelling, market insights, and structured reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse weather patterns, soil moisture, rainfall, temperature data, and crop health indicators (VHI, NDVI).

• Maintain and update research spreadsheets and databases (producer deliveries, weather DB, poultry industry data, planting/harvest progress, etc).

• Plan and execute crop tours across South Africa and neighbouring countries.

• Update supply and demand models as the season progresses.

• Conduct research on upcoming weather systems and seasonal events and report to the trading team.

• Prepare and deliver presentations on weather trends, market conditions, and crop forecasts.

• Compare and interpret weather models (ECM vs GFS).

• Build detailed production and demand estimates for South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Present analysis to key clients and trading stakeholders via reports and presentations.

• Support acreage and production estimates for major crops through crop growth models and field observations.

Minimum Requirements

• Degree in Agricultural Economics or related field.

• 2–3 years’ relevant experience in agricultural market or weather analysis.

• Proven experience in weather impact assessment and crop performance interpretation.

• Hands-on crop tour experience.

• Strong understanding of grain and oilseed markets (advantageous).

• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

• Coding proficiency (Python).

• Knowledge of agronomy and crop growth processes.

• GIS capability and geospatial interpretation.

• Technical and statistical analysis skills.

• Fluent in Afrikaans and English.

• Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building ability.

• Curious, analytical thinker with high attention to detail and resilience under pressure.