State Veterinarian at Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs

MINIMUM - COMPETENCIES

• Knowledge of Animal Diseases Act, 1984. Veterinary and Para-veterinary Professions Act, 1982. Animal Identification Act, 2002. Performing Animals Protection Amendment Act, 2016. Medicines and Related Substances Act,1965, Sound knowledge of veterinary legislation, animal health, disease control and animal welfare. Fair knowledge on Meat Safety Act, 2000, Public Finance Management Act, 1999 and other Public Service-related Acts.
• Understanding of animal health, disease control, epidemiology, biosecurity, and animal welfare. Computer literacy. Good communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills. Report writing and administrative skills. Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams. Willingness to travel extensively and work after hours when required. A valid driver's license

REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 plus a recognised Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc/BVMCh) or a related veterinary qualification recognised by SAQA, NQF Level 8. Current registration with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC).
• Completion of Compulsory Community Service (where applicable). Relevant experience will be an added advantage.

DUTIES

• Develop, implement and monitor animal health programmes, including disease prevention, surveillance, control and eradication. Investigate and respond to outbreaks of controlled and notifiable animal diseases. Conduct epidemiological investigations, disease risk assessments, and maintain disease surveillance systems. Manage biosecurity measures, emergency disease preparedness and response plans.
• Enforce veterinary legislation, regulations and policies, including the Animal Diseases Act, Animal Identification Act, and related legislation. Monitor inspections, audits and compliance monitoring at farms, auction facilities, quarantine stations and other animal-related establishments. Issue veterinary health certificates, permits and other official documentation for the movement, import and export of animals and animal products.
• Promote animal welfare through inspections, investigations and awareness programmes. Manage technical and professional veterinary advice to farmers, industry stakeholders, municipalities, government departments and the public. Plan, manage and monitor vaccination campaigns and other animal health interventions. Collect, analyse and report animal health data and compile technical, epidemiological and management reports.
• Performance Management and Development System implementation for employees under their jurisdiction. Reporting of performance and management of the state veterinary area. Maintain inventory, stock, and legislative compliance. Manage revenue collection and deposits. Manage budget and expenditure of the state veterinary area.