Hot Jobs at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Providing strategic research direction for the Soil Science programme in harmony with the ARC’s Strategic Plan.
• Pro-active personnel management in terms of application and effective utilization to maintain and strengthen the core of expertise within the Soil Science discipline.
• Recruitment of funding and project management and in an agricultural and natural resource environment, both nationally and internationally,
• Acquisition and maintenance of research equipment, computers, peripherals and specialized software.
• Monitoring and evaluation of research and technology development projects, and maintenance of scientific quality standards.
• Mentoring young scientists/technicians/postgraduate students and discharging duties in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Scientific networking, both nationally and internationally.
• Technology transfer.

Requirements

• PhD in Soil Science/Agronomy (or equivalent).
• The candidate must have a proven research background across various fields in Soil Science.
• Ability to work with communities and conduct fieldwork.
• Willingness to travel away from home for intermediate periods.
• Experience in student supervision and mentoring.
• Registration with SACNASP (or evidence that registration could be obtained).
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Valid driver’s licence (code 08/EB).
   

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Description
Analytical and Diagnostic Services

• Receive, register, final review of results and report on analyses.
• Invoicing on lab management system.
• Client liaison.
• Organize workflow and ensure that samples are tested in accordance with customer requests.
• Develop, evaluate, validate and implement test methods in the laboratory.
• Implement and update technical SOPs.
• Perform routine plant and soil analysis on CHNS analyzer and other laboratory instruments.
• Do trouble shooting on equipment and procedures used in the lab.
• Calibrate and maintain equipment.
• Maintain and update lab book and filling of raw data, all reports and invoices for the project.
• Plan work activities as directed by work schedule.
• Train personnel and interns on different techniques.
• Maintain a clean work area and facilities.
• Quality Control
• Maintain the quality control system and, therefore, follow all QC procedures and SOPs.
• Write and update methods and validation documents.
• Monitor analytical standards.
• Verify or calibrate equipment as required.
• Laboratory Safety and Compliance
• Adhere to Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
• Supervise OHS regulations in the laboratory.
• Adhere to good housekeeping and GLP in the lab.

Requirements

• National Diploma or degree in Analytical Chemistry.
• 3-5 years’ experience in plant and soil analysis methods, performing routine analysis on CHNS analyzer.
• Knowledge on how to process and interpret data from the instrument is important.
• Registration with relevant scientific body would be an advantage.
• Computer literacy.
• Good communication and planning skills.

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Description

• Provide administrative support to the research programmes.
• Manage daily logistics in the offices of the Research Team Managers.
• Render effective secretarial services.
• Manage and direct the flow of documents.
• Prepare submissions.
• Liaison with relevant stakeholders.
• Provide logistical arrangements, which include travel and accommodation bookings.
• Undertake basic financial administration including budget monitoring (S&T) and procurement (purchase requisitions and invoices).
• Set up a system to coordinate the flow of correspondence from the office to other ARC campuses and external stakeholders.
• Organize and take minutes at meetings.

Requirements

• Secretarial/Administration diploma or degree.
• 3 years’ experience as a secretary.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Confidentiality.
• Attention to detail.

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Description

• Assists the breeder in preparation of experimental material. 
• Assist with trial field preparation, management of trial fields.
• Implement the crossings as planned by the breeder and ensures accurate research data collection.
• Pro-actively provide technical input within the context of the research projects.
• Provides timeous and reliable data which supports the objectives of the research project. 
• Correctly apply techniques within guideline, standards, and references.
• Ensures cost-effective utilization of research resources, complete purchase requisitions, obtain quotations and purchasing of required research materials and consumables following the financial prescriptions.
• Technology Partnerships.
• Assist in hosting field days.
• Assist in communication with farmers and extension officers.
• Involvement in the innovation and Commercialization activities.
• Handles the submission to request the approval to recruit temporary workers and deployment, supervision and timesheet preparation and submission to HCM.
• Evidence of contributions in publications (e.g. popular publications, scientific publications) and/or involvement in presentations (e.g. at farmers' days, combined congress, etc.)
• Regulatory Compliance with the Health and Safety procedures.

Requirements

• MTech. Degree in Plant Breeding or related field (Plant Science, Plant Production/ Agronomy, Genetics/Plant Biotechnology), with 2 years applicable experience.
• B Degree or B Hons Degree; B.Tech Degree, or National Higher Diploma; with 6 years applicable experience.
• National Diploma (3 years) with 8 years applicable experience.
• Proficiency in MS office suite.
• Valid EC drivers’ license.
• Experience in conventional plant breeding techniques will be an added advantage.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under greenhouse and field conditions will be an added advantage.
• Good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, and sustainable field management will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of the application of molecular biology tools is an added advantage.
• Registration with relevant scientific body will be an added advantage.
   

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Description

• Manage the Core facility at BTP, including developing, establishing and managing existing genomics- and bioinformatics-based products to support research.
• Develop activities within the mandate of the ARC and other relevant sectors with focus on quality, efficiency and cost.
• Coordinate and manage analytical and support services within the BTP-Core Facility.
• Coordinate and manage planning and reporting of activities within the BTP-Core Facility.
• Initiate and coordinate stakeholder engagement to promote activities of the BTP-Core Facility.
• Coordinate client workflows to ensure short turnaround times, efficient data dissemination and client invoicing.
• Implement and run LIMS and automation of workflows on all products.
• Contribute to capacity building through either postgraduate student supervision and/or training within facility.
• Develop and implement the use of Standard Operating Procedures within the Core-Facility environment. 
• Collaborate and interact with research teams across ARC to ensure broad application of genomic tools in agricultural research and development programs.      
• Raise funds to ensure the optimal functioning of the Biotechnology Platform Core Facility at the cutting edge of available technologies.

Requirements

• PhD in genomics and/or bioinformatics.
• Knowledge of genomics and their application in agriculture and other science sectors.
• The ability to manage a Core-facility team that needs to deliver on time, maintain quality and provide new and improved services continuously.
• Experience and a proven track record in agricultural research and development service provision.
• A track record of publication in research and development journals and recognition within the research community
• Appropriate experience in project management and fund raising.
• Ability to work in a core facility or analytical laboratory environment.
• Ability to interact with clients in a collaborative and consultative role.
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory information management systems.
   

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Description

• Feeding of animals and providing clean drinking water.
• Removal of waste on a daily basis and cleaning of water troughs on a weekly basis.
• Daily cleaning of animal housing and outside pens
• Assists with the herd management tasks such as ear tagging, dehorning, castration, vaccinations, blood sampling and treatments
• Daily inspection of fences, assist repairing and erecting new ones.
• Making fire breaks and assist with controlling of veld fires.
• Garden Maintenance services.
• Other Adhoc services within the facilities.

Requirements

• Matric / Senior Certificate
• Driver's license.
• The candidate must have small and large farm animal handling skills.
• The work is physically demanding, the candidate must be good health and able to work in the field for long hours.
• The candidate must have good communication skills, maintain working relationships with others and adapt to teamwork.
• Must be able to work most weekends, public holidays and over Christmas recess.
• Must be able to drive a tractor, load and offload bales and bags of pellets.
   

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Description

• To render a quality analytical/diagnostic service by performing serological tests on veterinary samples in accordance with the
• requirements of ISO/IEC 17025.
• Conducts diagnostic tests, conducts tests for research support, and performs other work-related services.
• Performing B.canis, RBT, SAT, MRT and CFT tests.
• Receiving and recording of samples details in record books and correctly storing samples.
• Registration of samples.
• Performs Quality Assurance duties and adheres to quality standards.
• Recording results in the appropriate results books and Labware system.
• Assisting in the improvement and development of new test methods in collaboration with the Head of Laboratory.
• Providing research support by giving project input regarding technical detail and carrying out assigned technical tasks.

Requirements

• National Diploma in Veterinary Technology, B-Tech or BSc-H degree in Veterinary Technology will be added advantage.
• Knowledge of Bacterial Serology Tests.
• Professional membership SAVC compulsory.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• SAVC registration mandatory.
• A driver’s license will be an added advantage.
   

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Description
The successful incumbent will be reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and will be expected to execute the following Key performance areas:

• Contribute to the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of organisational strategies for accomplishment of the ARC’s vision.
• Contribution to financial sustainability by developing and coordinating a resource mobilisation capacity.
• To position the ARC as a premier research organisation that strives for excellence in Research and Development for a productive, competitive and sustainable sector, whilst fulfilling the transformation and development mandate (e.g. small holder agricultural development).
• Participate in Executive Management Committee functions and provide executive support to President & CEO to facilitate reporting to ARC Council Participate in special and ad-hoc projects as required and/or delegated.
• Provide strategic leadership and management to the 3 research functional areas, i.e., Crops & NRE, Animals & Biotechnology as well as Research Support & Coordination, and align with ARC strategic outcomes and outputs.
• Coordinate the development and implementation of the research strategy in line with national strategic frameworks and other regional and global imperatives.
• Ensure that the functional areas have sufficient capacity and skill sets in accordance with business requirements.
• Create a leadership presence and provide strategic direction to ensure that the cluster achieves the objectives and targets in the strategic plan pertaining to work/functions performed by the cluster.
• Implement the ARC strategic plan within the cluster, as well as report on strategic plan implementation.
• Provide strategic and sound management advice to the management team and all staff on matters pertaining to the cluster activities.
• Oversee, monitor, evaluate and communicate the status of implementation of the cluster’s business performance.
• Oversee the development and implementation and review of applicable strategies, plans and policies & procedures within the cluster.
• Management of business risks by identifying and developing appropriate risk management strategies including compliance.
• Identify, quantify, monitor, and report business risks (financial, operational, research and development) across all the cluster’s units, and profile them accordingly. 

Business Development

• Identify and follow up on opportunities for potential new business ventures, secure and collaborate with respective institutes.
• Initiate and maintain strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders internationally, across the sector and with relevant government departments and conversion of partnerships into revenue opportunities.
• Ensure that new contracts are signed with public and private sector as well as international clients.
• Develop new products and markets and expand offerings to existing clients to maintain positive relationships as evidenced by repeat business.

Staff Management

• Continuously scout for R&D talent and support the development of the ARC employee value proposition that will allow the division to attract highly qualified, skilled committed human resources to optimise divisional and organisational capacity.
• Lead, manage and empower staff within functional areas to ensure that staff meets the functional objectives in the strategic plan and individual objectives of their individual performance contracts.
• Implement performance management across the functions.
• Attend to staff management matters timeously.
• Maintain appropriate staff discipline and controls in line with disciplinary code and procedure.

Research Leadership

• Provide leadership in research through supervision, collaboration and advice.
• Actively lead and support teams to mobilise resources.
• Support funding proposals for major initiatives and collaborative teams.
• Encourage research teams to publish in high quality research journals.
• Promote continuous capacity development amongst existing staff compliments.
• Lead and develop comprehensive institutional research projects, and identify research priorities to support the ARC’s mission, strategic vision, and initiatives.
• Coordinate the budgeting process and planning in the Cluster and oversee/monitor and control implementation of capital and operational budget in the Cluster so that the expenditure is in line with the defined limit and ARC business strategy.
• Display knowledge of and, where applicable, be involved in collaborative research with other institutions across the range of disciplines relevant to the work of the ARC.
• Provide information and analytical support to the ARC’s decision-makers to facilitate strategic planning, policymaking and other processes requiring sound strategic analysis.
• Produce high-quality peer-reviewed papers and oversee their production by other members of the research team.
• Oversee management, maintenance and safeguarding of all assets and equipment of the Cluster to ensure that they are used and managed in an effective, efficient, economical, and transparent manner.
• Manage projects and programmes initiated and delegated by the ARC and/or any other relevant stakeholder, to ensure that they are delivered within quality standards, time, and budget.
• May be required to perform various ad hoc duties delegated by the Chief Executive Officer from time to time to ensure objectives and targets set for the ARC are achieved.

Requirements

• 10 years post-PhD experience in a relevant scientific research environment, of which 5 years should have been at Senior Management level.
• Strong track record of having worked in a scientific research environment, with a thorough understanding of the ARC’s agricultural research mandate, regulatory environment, social, economic and political landscape.
• Experience working with and reporting to governance structures such as Boards, Councils and other such structures.
• Evidence of innovative and strategic decision-making, regulatory compliance and stakeholder relationship management skills.
• Experience in working and managing teams at senior management level. 
• Sound practical knowledge of leading management and business practices within a multidisciplinary scientific environment.
• Demonstrated leadership in advancing research output and experience in delivering projects that integrate science into solutions for innovative agricultural products and productivity.
• Experience and vision, paired with demonstrated and acknowledged strategic execution capabilities.
• Advanced knowledge, insight and strategic execution capabilities in the innovation, technology transfer and commercialisation ecosystem.
• Established and valuable international networks with outstanding stewardship, diplomatic, effective and efficient communication skills to leverage local, regional and global networks.
• Demonstrated experience in resource mobilisation external to the ARC environment.
• Outstanding personal qualities of integrity, sound judgement, energy, passion and constructive interpersonal skills.
   

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Description
The successful incumbent will be reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and will be expected to execute the following:

• Operational Efficiency and Excellence: Overseeing the smooth running of shared services and corporate support functions and, implementing best practice to improve efficiencies and compliance with applicable regulatory frameworks.
• Resource Allocation: Managing budgetary and resource allocation decisions to support the institution's mission and goals.
• Process Improvement: Identifying and implementing process improvements and operational efficiencies to enhance service delivery and reduce costs.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborating with senior leadership to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the institution's mission and vision.
• Shared Services Management: Overseeing the shared services divisions within the institution, ensuring they operate cohesively and meet their respective objectives.
• Corporate Support Management: Overseeing the Corporate Support division and ensuring they operate cohesively and meet respective objectives.
• Policy Implementation: Ensuring that policies, procedures, and regulations are effectively communicated and adhered to throughout the organisation.
• Performance Evaluation: Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the institution's performance and make data-driven decisions.
• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating operational risks and challenges that could impact the institution's mission or reputation.
• Stakeholder Relations: Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials, community groups, and partner organisations.
• Innovation and Technology: Promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and practices to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
• Emergency Response and Continuity Planning: Developing and implementing plans for emergency response, business continuity, and disaster recovery.
• Compliance and Legal Affairs: Ensuring that the institution complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Human Capital Management: Overseeing personnel, including hiring, training, and performance management, to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.
• Communication and Reporting: Providing regular updates to senior leadership, governing boards, and other stakeholders on operational performance and progress toward goals.
• Conflict Resolution: Handling internal conflicts and disputes within the organisation in a fair and constructive manner.
• Crisis Management: Leading the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts.
• Ethical Leadership: Upholding and promoting ethical standards and values within the organisation, setting a positive example for all employees.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with Stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns and ensuring the institution's services are responsive to those needs.

Requirements

• A Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Business Leadership or any other related field. PhD or equivalent qualification will be an added advantage.
• 10 years’ management experience of which 5 years should have been at Senior or Executive level. 
• Experience in a similar role within a scientific research environment, with a thorough understanding of the agricultural sector and regulatory environment.
• Track record in managing multidisciplinary teams and departments such as Security, Infrastructure, HCM, Legal, SHEQ, Marketing and Communications, Risk Management, Strategy and Planning and ICT.
• Sound practical knowledge and experience in leading management and business practices.

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Description

• Liaison with the project Managers and Research Team Managers as a link between Finance and Core.
• Assist project Managers with cost management accounting by applying the best practice.
• Assist Project and Programme managers with the preparation and loading and compile the forecast report.
• Assist with budget revisions where necessary.
• Ensure that financial risks are well identified and adequately addressed.
• Ensure that the contract register for all active and signed contracts is kept.
• Ensure that all active, but expired contracts are supported by an addendum.
• Ensure proper closing of completed projects on the system.
• Compile and evaluate the financial performance report of each project.
• Ensure that all audit queries are attended to and resolve as soon as possible.
• Assist the Finance Manager in all matters that need the project accountants’ input.
• Ensure income recognition is done in terms of the applicable accounting standards for all externally funded projects.
• Assist in mapping all employees to specific project (s), the correct managers and hours allocated to the correct project.
• Ensure that time sheets are done for all projects.
• Ensure that all the log sheets are captured by deadline.
• Manage all externally funded projects to avoid operational losses and report losses to the Institute Finance Manager.
• Ensure that all transactions are processed timeously and proper accruals are put through.
• Maintain project related records.
• Prepare financial reports and proof of income reports to the funder.
• Maintain the project related data in SAGE X3.
• Provide leadership and initiatives in the cost and management environment.
• To comply with Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
• Prepare monthly accounts reconciliations.
• Assists with updating of Fixed Asset register.

Requirements

• National Diploma/BCom Degree in Cost and Management Accounting or Equivalent Qualification /AAT.
• Minimum of 2-3 years’ experience in the finance environment.
• Good analytical skills, report writing and organizational skills.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Exposure to SAGE X3 ERP will be an added advantage.
• Good communication skills (verbal and written).