Deputy Director: Technical Support, Ref No. AGR 08/2024 R1 at Western Cape Government

Job Purpose    
The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to provide technical pomology production support for the Chief Directorate:

• Agricultural Producer Support and Development (APSD). 

Minimum Requirements    

• An appropriate 3-year B-Degree (equivalent or higher qualification) in Pomology, Horticulture or related field
• A minimum of 6 years experience in an agricultural environment
• A valid code B (or higher) driving licence.
• NB: People with disabilities that restrict driving abilities, but who have reasonable access to transport, may also apply.

Recommendation    

• An appropriate post graduate (BSc Hons and/or MSc degrees or higher qualification)

Practical experience in:

• Pome/stone fruit, citrus or berry production
• Research and development as well as adaptive research
• Mentoring, coaching and supervision of pomology related extension
• Networking with fruit industry and related commodities on a professional level.

Key Performance Areas    

• Develop internal operational and information systems, consisting of appropriate data, frameworks and procedures in order to improve the efficiency of advisory services in Pome, stone citrus and berry production spheres
• Develop technical, economic and business acumen of extension officers regarding pomology production, operations and improved service delivery
• Facilitate training and capacity building to agriculturists and farmers
• Provide strategic and specialist inputs to implement innovations and perform critical supportive roles in animal production 
• Administration and management of human resources.

Competencies    

Knowledge and understanding of the following:

• Agricultural pomology production sector
• Soil crop relations, climatic conditions for crops in the province
• Rural promology advisory services and related policies
• Land reform and applicable agricultural development policies in South Africa
• Financial Management, Human Resources and applicable prescripts.

Skills needed:

• Scientific writing and editing
• Communication (written,verbal and report writing)
• Planning and organising
• Computer especially in MS Office, Adobe and CC Suite
• Excellent attention to detail
• Good interpersonal and technical intelligence capabilities.

Remuneration    

• All-inclusive salary package of R 896 436 per annum (Salary level 11)