Chief Research Technician: Plant Breeding at Agricultural Research Council

• The ARC-Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Addo, Eastern Cape.

Job Description

• Manages projects on breeding and evaluation of tropical and subtropical crops at Addo.
• Manages daily activities in research blocks in the field with assistance of support staff.
• Manages project budgets to ensure effective resource allocation (funds and labour).
• Compiles progress reports in the form of written reports and presentations.
• Identifies research opportunities and implements advanced breeding technologies.
• Supervision and management of Research Technicians and Research Support Assistants.
• Contributes towards technology transfer and training efforts.
• Liaise with growers, industry technical officers and national and provincial government.
• Write popular/scientific publications and present research outcomes to growers, industries and the scientific community.

Job Requirements

• MSc/MTech/equivalent in Plant Breeding/Genetics/Horticulture/Plant Production/Agriculture/Natural Sciences and 8 years applicable experience, or BSc. Hons and 10 years applicable experience.
• Proven ability to manage farm/research blocks in the field.
• Knowledge of plant breeding, horticultural production and management of field blocks is essential.
• Basic project and financial management skills.
• History of collaboration at national level.
• Advanced Computer Literacy.
• Code EB driver’s licence and proven ability to drive.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 MARCH 2026