Sappi : Research Officer

Key Responsibilities

– Conduct both Ad hoc and annual, structured, pest and disease surveys (walking) through plantation and nursery visits. – Monitor and survey research trials for pests and diseases through regular annual visits. – Capture pest and disease survey data and conduct analyses in order to monitor trends and inform IPM practices. – Conduct pest and disease diagnostics, in the plantation and/or nursery as well as through laboratory processing of samples in order to identify the cause of tree health problems and detect possible novel pests/pathogens. – Spend at least 50% of time in field (including intra and inter-provincial travelling with regular periods/nights away from home). – Plan, manage and conduct quality control evaluations, through plantation visits, of the Sirex control, cossid moth monitoring/control, and other operational pest and disease control programmes as and when they arise. – Manage pest and disease contractors and other service providers. Ensure that they undergo annual training with regards to all health and safety regulations (SHEQ) of Sappi and conduct annual evaluations of work quality and adherence to best operating procedures through planned job observations (PJOs).

Minimum Requirements

– BSc (3 yrs) plus honours or BSc (4yrs) or BTech Degree in a relevant science (Entomology, Plant Pathology, Forestry, Horticulture) – Up to 2 years’ relevant experience or MSc degree would be advantageous – Valid driver’s licence – extensive travelling needed for position – Experience in statistical analyses and GIS will be advantageous – Fieldwork experience