Current Openings at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Plans and coordinates work activities according to project plans.
• Supervises allocated human resources where applicable.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial administrative controls.
• Conducts field-based research support, and technical services.
• Collects, captures, and processes data, including basic statistical analysis.
• Prepares and submits verbal and written reports on work activities and results.
• Optimises equipment, processes, or systems under supervision.
• Provides technical input into the optimisation of new technologies.
• Assists in training junior staff and interns in field protocols and techniques.
• Participates in community engagement and participatory fieldwork.
• Complies with Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and procedures.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in crop production and/or pasture science.
• 3 years of experience in working with forage production, agronomy and planted pastures
• Understanding of agricultural principles and implements related to research projects.
• Experience in working with a large team including students and farmers.
• Evidence of contributions in publications and/or involvement in presentations (e.g. farmers' days).
• Willing to do extensive traveling to research sites over multiple provinces is mandatory.
• Knowledge on maintenance of equipment and infrastructure needed for research.
• Knowledge on safety standards as prescribed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Must have a Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.
• Registration with relevant scientific registration body will be an advantage.
• NB: Applicants must choose only one province they want to be place in .

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Processing of transactions in line with the National Treasury Act and ARC policies and procedures.
• Receive and review requisition received and verify specifications for required goods and/or services with attachment(s), if any. Verification of the commodity used versus the product category (PI code) to ensure correctness. Source quotations, enter response and issue an order
• Capital Items: Process the RFQ for capex items within 2 days and finalise the adjudication of capex quotations within 14 days. Verify capex approval was granted. If not, return requisition to obtain approval.
• Running RFQs within the allotted turnaround times for requisitions exceeding R 2,000 and below R 30,000.00 ensure specifications/requirements comply, issue RFQ, after closure conduct pre-screening, evaluated with end user and process within 10 days.
• For requisitions exceeding 30,000 and less than R 500,000,00, including CIDB projects between R 200,000,00 and R 500,000,00: Ensure specifications are complete or adequate for suppliers to provide quotation, if not return purchase requisition (PR). Where required, e.g., Facility and capex projects, obtain nominations for Bid Specification and bid Evaluation Committee members confirmed by the SMR: AHP. Issue RFQ and obtain suitable suppliers on CSD & ARC supplier database. After closure, record responses, conduct pre-screening and evaluate with Bid Evaluation Committee. Prepare minutes and submit to IBAC for approval.
• Competitive bidding exceeding R 500,000,00: Ensure specifications are complete or adequate for suppliers to provide quotation, if not return purchase requisition (PR). Where required, e.g., Facility and capex projects, obtain nominations for Bid Specification and bid Evaluation Committee members confirmed by the SMR: AHP. obtain approval on the specification and issue out a tender advert After closure, record responses, conduct pre-screening and evaluate with Bid Evaluation Committee. Prepare minutes and submit to IBAC for approval. Submit it to the supply chain account to be presented at the CTC.
• Management of institute supplier database, Search for suppliers on the CSD to effect project-based procurement.
• Forward suppliers to Central Office for capturing into AX. Ensuring rotation in procurement by increasing supplier database

Handling of queries and monthly reports

• Report on outstanding requisitions older than 3 weeks not “Closed" and challenges experienced on a weekly basis, reason for delay to be provided.
• Irregular expenditure identified to be reported immediately with the necessary documentation with the Purchase Order and reason(s) obtain from the person responsible for the irregularity.
• Progress reports for the procurement of capital items and facility projects on monthly basis.
• SCM SharePoint management, Po’s will be scanned with the PO number, Filed appropriately.

Financial and general administration

• Should any invoices be received for processing of a PO that exceeds the 30-day payment required stipulated by National Treasury, it will be reported.

Communication Internal Stakeholders External Stakeholders

• Report on system challenges experienced when they occur, with details of the errors or problems encountered not later than the occurrence date, including communication to service desk.

Attendance of Meeting

• Attending of Monthly SCM meeting and Finance divisional meeting.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Supply Chain Management (SCM) specifically in Sourcing, Supply Management or Purchasing Management.
• Minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in the Finance or similar environment.
• Knowledge, experience and understanding of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA),
• Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA) and related legislation.
• Demonstrate understanding of communication between end users, SCM, Finance and service providers and importance of providing feedback on progress.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in the MS Office suite.
• Exposure to the Microsoft Dynamics AX system.
• Good analytical skills, report writing and organisational skills.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Compiling and executing technical activity plans for the implementation of field and greenhouse trials relating to breeding of leafy, fruit or seed vegetables.
• Plan, conduct and supervise the execution and collection of data.
• Capture and process technical data with basic analysis.
• Compile technical reports.
• Manage project facilities, material and equipment and ensure optimal utilization of resources.
• Assist with compiling and managing project budgets.
• Develops technical capacity at an appropriate level.
• Assist in rendering technical or other research services at a national level.

Requirements

• A National Diploma in Horticulture / Crop Production or related field.
• Bachelor’s Degree with a major in Plant Breeding will be an added advantage.
• Two years relevant experience in technical aspects of crop production.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under open-field conditions.
• Good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, irrigation systems (installation, operation and maintenance), and sustainable field management.
• Experience and good understanding of indigenous vegetable production will be an added advantage.
• Experience and good understanding of plant breeding will be an added advantage.
• Good understanding of irrigation scheduling and use of soil water content monitoring equipment will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• A valid driver’s license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Compiling and executing technical activity plans for the implementation of open field and greenhouse trials of vegetable crops/or Medicinal Plants.
• Plan, conduct and supervise the execution and collection of data.
• Capture and process technical data with basic analysis.
• Compile technical reports.
• Manage project facilities, material and equipment and ensure optimal utilization of resources.
• Assist with compiling and managing project budgets.
• Develops technical capacity at an appropriate level.
• Assist in rendering technical or other research services at a national level.
• Assist with organization of scientific or marketing events.
• Participate in transfer of technology and promotion in the form of presentations, posters, workshops, training, products, services, literature, information days, courses and other events.

Requirements

• A National Diploma in Horticulture / Crop Production or related field.
• Bachelor’s Degree with a major in Horticulture / Crop Production will be an added advantage.
• Two years relevant experience in technical aspects of crop production.
• Minimum of 1-year applicable experience and a good understanding of hydroponic vegetable/or Medicinal plants production will be added advantage.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under open-field and/or hydroponic conditions.
• Good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods or hydroponic cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, irrigation systems (installation, operation and maintenance), and sustainable crop management.
• Experience and good understanding of indigenous vegetable/or Medicinal Plants production will be an added advantage.
• Good understanding of irrigation scheduling and use of soil water content monitoring equipment will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• A valid driver’s license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Plans and coordinates work activities according to project plans.
• Supervises allocated human resources where applicable.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial administrative controls.
• Conducts field-based research support, restoration diagnostics, and technical services.
• Collects, captures, and processes rangeland and ecological data, including basic analysis.
• Prepares and submits verbal and written reports on work activities and results.
• Optimises equipment, processes, or systems under supervision.
• Provides technical input into the optimisation of new technologies for restoration work.
• Supports the delivery of diagnostic and technical services under supervision.
• Assists in training junior staff and interns in field protocols and techniques.
• Participates in community engagement and participatory fieldwork.
• Complies with Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and procedures.

Requirements

• National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in the natural/environmental sciences or agricultural sector.
• 3 years’ experience natural/environmental sciences or agricultural sector.
• Experience in rangeland ecology, rehabilitation, or restoration.
• Proven involvement in community engagement and participatory rangeland management activities.
• Competence in vegetation and soil sampling, ecological monitoring, GPS use, and conducting household or community-level surveys.
• Must have a Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Plans and coordinates work activities according to project plans.
• Supervises allocated human resources where applicable.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial administrative controls.
• Conducts field-based research support, restoration diagnostics, and technical services.
• Collects, captures, and processes rangeland and ecological data, including basic analysis.
• Prepares and submits verbal and written reports on work activities and results.
• Optimises equipment, processes, or systems under supervision.
• Provides technical input into the optimisation of new technologies for restoration work.
• Supports the delivery of diagnostic and technical services under supervision.
• Assists in training junior staff and interns in field protocols and techniques.
• Participates in community engagement and participatory fieldwork.
• Complies with Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and procedures.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in the natural/environmental sciences or agricultural sector.
• 3 years’ experience in GIS, spatial analysis, and managing environmental datasets.
• Proficient in tools such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or other open-source mapping platforms.
• Ability to produce maps, conduct spatial assessments, and support field teams with navigation and geospatial planning.
• Must have a Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Performs routine activities related to plant breeding under supervision.
• Performs sample collection and processing under supervision.
• Assists with seed harvesting, cleaning, sorting and storage.
• Assists in coordinating of work activities and supervises allocated resources, if applicable.
• Adheres to work plans and timeously provide verbal and written feedback on work activities and challenges encountered to supervisor.
• Provides general research support.
• Visible compliance with Human Resource policies and procedures and Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Grade 12 (NQF 4) plus 3 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Or Grade 10 (NFQ 2) plus 8 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Relevant experience in cultivation and maintenance of vegetable crops, including land preparations, planting, weeding, harvesting, fertilizer applications and irrigation set-up.
• Relevant experience in greenhouse sanitation practices, growth media preparations and seedling/plantlet production.
• Effective utilization of tools, implements and research materials.
• Competence in herbicide and pesticide applications will be an added advantage.
• Valid drivers’ license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 07 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Plans and coordinates work activities according to project plans.
• Supervises allocated human resources where applicable.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial administrative controls.
• Conducts field-based research support, restoration diagnostics, and technical services.
• Collects, captures, and processes rangeland and ecological data, including basic analysis.
• Prepares and submits verbal and written reports on work activities and results.
• Optimises equipment, processes, or systems under supervision.
• Provides technical input into the optimisation of new technologies for restoration work.
• Supports the delivery of diagnostic and technical services under supervision.
• Assists in training junior staff and interns in field protocols and techniques.
• Participates in community engagement and participatory fieldwork.
• Complies with Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and procedures.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification in the natural/environmental sciences or agricultural sector.
• 3 years’ experience in logistics, planning, and coordinating multi-site field operations.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills for managing field schedules, materials, and support staff.
• Must have a Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 AUGUST 2025

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Description

• Performs routine laboratory activities related to microbiology (growth media and buffer preparations, isolation/extraction, purification, preservation, inoculation, and nucleic acid-based techniques) under supervision.
• Manages plants in greenhouse and follows sanitation procedures.
• Performs sample collection and processing, as well as data collection and processing under supervision.
• Assists in coordinating of work activities and supervises allocated resources, if applicable.
• Adheres to work plans and timeously provide verbal and written feedback on work activities and challenges encountered to supervisor.
• Provides research support, diagnostics and other services.
• Visible compliance with Human Resource policies and procedures and Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedure.

Requirements

• Grade 12 (NQF 4) with 3 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Or Grade 10 (NFQ 2) with 8 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Relevant experience in laboratory related work on plant viruses, fungi and/or nematodes (preparations of plant material for extractions, media preparation, basic molecular work, etc.).
• Relevant experience in soil sterilization and maintenance of crops in greenhouses (propagation, planting, maintenance, harvesting, disease scouting, etc.).
• Relevant experience in greenhouse sanitation practices and laboratory aseptic techniques.
• Relevant experience in pathogen inoculations activities and disease scoring.
• Relevant experience in field trial management will be an added advantage.
• Relevant experience in seed quality testing will be an added advantage.
• Understands and adheres to Good Laboratory Practices and quality standards.
• Valid drivers’ license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 07 AUGUST 2025

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Description

Project Management & Coordination

The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research Projects across the Institute; these include conducting the following aspects of the projects;

• Research planning and Initiation.
• Equipment and Research Materials.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Risk Management and Mitigation.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.
• Research, Development, and Innovation

The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research, development and supporting innovation; these include supporting the following Research aspects;

• Invention.
• Translation.
• Commercialisation.
• Adoption and Use.
• Research Collaboration

The Researcher is responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include

• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.

Human Capacity Building

The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of

• Project staff and students.
• Self.
• Conduct independent sensory research, including consumer and trained sensory panels, which will include, but not be limited to, descriptive and discriminating analysis, time intensity, texture analysis, preference and acceptance testing, and methodology.
• Correctly apply scientific techniques and complete scientific and technical tasks promptly according to a set of quality standards.
• Efficiently plan and schedule analytical, sensory, and consumer services in accordance with scientific guidelines.
• Properly collect, process, and capture data.
• Responsible for accurate, timely, and reliable reporting of analytical results.

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree or an MSc with 3 years’ applicable experience in Food Science, Food Technology. Consumer Science, and related fields.
• Specialised knowledge plus sensory, consumer research, and research principles.
• Good conceptual, analytical, and writing skills.
• Minimum 3-5 peer-reviewed publications.
• Technology Transfer: Participate in advisory services and supervision of students.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects in line with requirements at the Master's and PhD levels.
• In this respect proven record of writing proposals as part of master's and PhD studies.
• Proven record of participating as a speaker nationally as part of master's and PhD levels. Must be able to show competence in presenting research results.
• Proven record for financial management of projects.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Computer literacy and proficiency in the MS Office suite.
• Shows awareness of Intellectual Property opportunities.
• A valid South African driver’s license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 07 AUGUST 2025