Job Title: GIS Officer (Permanent)
Grade: C3
Reports To: Information Services Officer
Department / Centre Information Services-Agricultural Operations

Main Purpose of the job:

The area under cane is a critical input for agricultural planning and
analysis, including crop forecasting, resource allocation, yield estimation,
and operational scheduling. Accurate spatial data enables informed
decision-making at both tactical and strategic levels, directly influencing
productivity and sustainability outcomes. This information is also essential
for determining the value of biological assets, a process that relies on the
spatial accuracy and consistency of data managed through Geographic
Information System (GIS) software.
The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the
GIS database at the site level, as well as across the broader Tongaat
Hulett Sugar (THS) South Africa cane supply catchment. This includes
supporting the maintenance and advancement of existing Global
Positioning System (GPS) tools and GIS applications, along with digitizing
and updating spatial data to provide accurate and current information for
operational and strategic decision-making.

Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships

Ensure the sourcing, digitizing, processing, and management of
geospatial data from various sources, including field GPS surveys,
geospatial data files, satellite imagery, and other remote sensing
technologies.
Develop and maintain comprehensive spatial databases, including
metadata and data dictionaries, to support agricultural operations.
Administer, and assess spatial data using advanced GIS tools, ensuring
the accuracy and completeness of all spatial data.
Assist in the integration of GIS data with existing agricultural
management systems, ensuring seamless data flow and enhanced
decision-making capabilities.
Produce accurate and up-to-date maps and spatial visualizations for
various stakeholders, utilizing GIS to track changes over time.
Maintenance and archiving of maps for operational, planning, and lease
agreement purposes, in line with stakeholder requirements.
Ensure continuous updating of spatial records to reflect real-world
conditions and maintain data fidelity.
Conduct spatial analysis to monitor the impact of agricultural practices
and changes within cane supply areas
Collaborate with various internal and external stakeholders to integrate
GIS capabilities into departmental workflows, enhancing data accessibility
and decision-making.
Provide technical guidance on spatial data for planning, environmental
monitoring, and reporting.
Provide ongoing technical support to enhance staff competency in
GIS/GPS applications.
Maintain and regularly update geospatial databases to ensure the
accurate representation of the agricultural sugar cane footprint.
Assist in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for database
maintenance and data integrity checks.
Perform regular backups of the geospatial database to ensure data
security and integrity.
Identify and implement software improvements at the site level to facilitate
enhanced planning, data analysis, and decision-making processes.
Identify emerging GIS and GPS technologies and tools and recommend
enhancements that align with the organization’s strategic goals and
operational needs.
Assist in ensuring a seamless integration of new software features with
existing agricultural management systems.

Qualifications & Experience:

 A three-year tertiary qualification, such as a National Diploma (N Dip) or
equivalent post-matriculation three-year qualification in Geographic
Information Systems (GIS), Geomatics, Environmental Science, or a
related field from an accredited institute of higher learning.
Valid Code B Driving License.
3 to 5 years of experience in GIS data management, spatial analysis, and
mapping within the agricultural or environmental sector, with proven
experience in project execution and data integration.
Proficient in GIS software such as ArcGIS, and other spatial data
management tools, with demonstrable skills in data analysis and
visualization.
Demonstrated ability to effectively utilize GPS tools for spatial data
collection, validation, and field-based operations.

Required Competencies

A self-motivated individual with the ability to work independently,
demonstrating adaptability and a strong willingness to learn and grow in a
dynamic environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy and the ability to present quality, reliable
and factual results.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
The flexibility and willingness to impart knowledge on applications and
processes that contributes to improved performance and the achievement
of goals and objectives.
A team player with a strong, confident and assertive personality.
Ability to work and make decisions or apply/implement actions under
pressure and take initiative.
Demonstrate good planning and organising skills.

Closing Date: 26 June 2025

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