Scientific Technician (Production) Grade A: Aquaculture, Fisheries & Livestock at Eastern Cape: Department Of Agriculture

• Technical Competencies: Programme and project management. Scientific methodologies. Research and development. Computer-aided scientific applications. Knowledge of legal compliance. Technical report writing. Creating a high-performance culture. Professional judgment. Data analysis. Mentoring. Computer literacy (MS Word, MS Excel and MS PPT). 
• Generic Competencies: Decision making. Team leadership. Analytical skills. Creativity. Self-management. Financial management. Customer focus and responsiveness. Communication. Computer literacy. Networking. People management. Planning and organising. Conflict management. Change management. Problem-solving and analysis.

Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF 6) in Aquaculture or Marine Biology or Ichthyology, or Zoology as recognized by SAQA. Valid compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Certificated Natural Scientist. Three (3) years’ post-qualification technical (scientific) experience. A valid driving license.

Duties

• Conduct field surveys to monitor water quality. Measure critical metrics (e.g., pH, oxygen, salinity, temperature, nutrients) across land- and sea-based aquaculture sites. Evaluate field conditions, oversee feedlot management, evaluate breeding programs, and handle animal housing or pasture science workflows. Run biochemical analyses (such as spectrophotometric analysis of water nutrients). Manage day-to-day operations of water quality or animal science laboratories. Maintain, calibrate, and ensure the safety compliance of specialized scientific equipment.
• Input field experimental data into national biological and agricultural databases. Process statistical analyses to track environmental impact or animal reproduction metrics. Enforce regulatory policies and complete technical inspections to ensure compliance with biosecurity or animal ethics standards. Compile detailed technical reports, research proposals, and scientific summaries. Provide advisory scientific data and tech support to local farmers, fishing operations, and sector stakeholders. Train and supervise intern technicians, junior candidate scientists, and student groups within research centres