Job Openings at Agricultural Research Council

Job Description

• Performs routine field trial activities under supervision.
• Performs routine greenhouse and laboratory activities under supervision.
• Assists in coordinating of work activities and supervises allocated HR resources, if applicable.
• Adheres to work plans and provide verbal and written feedback on work activities to supervisor.
• Utilizes equipment, tools, and materials.
• Adheres to financial administrative controls.
• Provides research support, diagnostics and other services.
• Collects data under supervision.
• Adheres to quality standards.
• Visible compliance with Human Resource policies and procedures and Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

Job Requirements

• Grade 12 (NQF 4) with three (3) years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Plant Production OR Grade 10 (NQF 2) with ten (10) years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Plant Production.
• Relevant experience in cultivation of vegetable crops in open field and/or in tunnels.
• Experience in pest management in a greenhouse and associated sanitation procedure.
• Experience in pest scouting and sample collection.
• Experience in field trial management will be an added advantage.
• Experience in mass insect rearing will be an added advantage.
• Valid drivers’ licence. 

CLOSING DATE FOR THE APPLICATIONS: 25 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

Project Management & Coordination

The Research Technician 2 is responsible conducting technical projects across the Institute; these include the following aspects of project management.

• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Project technical risk management.

Research Support, Diagnostics and Other Services

The Research Technician 2 is responsible for conducting technical projects.  These activities include the following activities

• Adoption, management, and use.
• Translation.
• Commercialization.

Technology Transfer

The Research Technician is responsible for conducting technology transfer initiatives in the institution, these are as follows

• Intellectual Property Assessment.
• Prototype Development.
• Testing and Validation.

Scientific Status Requirements

The Research Technician is responsible for assisting with scientific research endeavors; these include the following activities.

• Innovation and Commercialization.
• Project / Programme impact.

Safety, health, and Environment

The Research Technician 2 is responsible for assisting with safety, health and environment compliance and standards, these include the following activities.

• Regulatory Compliance.
• Lab safety.
• Hazardous material disposal.

Human Capital Development

The Research Technician 2 is responsible for Human capacity development, which includes.

• Project staff.
• Self.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF 6) in Microbiology, Plant Pathology, Crop Protection, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Two (2) to three (3) years relevant experience in technical aspects of plant pathology and plant microbial-related molecular biology techniques. 
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills. 
• Advanced computer literacy. 
• Compliance to safety standards as prescribed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act.  
• Bachelor’s degree or Advanced diploma will be an added advantage.
• Experience in disease scouting and disease diagnostics of vegetable crops will be an added advantage.
• A valid driver’s license will be an advantage. 

CLOSING DATE FOR THE APPLICATIONS: 25 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

• 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 timeously complete scientific and technical tasks 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, timeous and reliable reporting of analytical results.
• Responsible for administrative duties of the division’s (unit’s) information management system (quotations, orders, request for payments, etc.).
• Control laboratory stock cost-efficiently according to regulations.
• Assist with procurement of chemicals, etc.
• Maintain and ensure that equipment is in working order and in compliance with applicable quality standards.
• Timeously report malfunctioning of equipment.
• Assist in maintaining a clean working environment in general control stock.
• Maintain an occupational health and safety laboratory according to laboratory practice.
• Contribute to training of new taste panel members.
• Comply with financial policies and procedure. 

Job Requirements

• National Diploma in Consumer / Food Science or equivalent.
• 3-5 years’ applicable experience with knowledge of consumer research techniques.
• Specialized knowledge plus sensory, consumer research and research principals.
• Good conceptual, analytical and writing skills.
• Excellent interpretation skills.
• The ability to work under pressure.
• The ability to deliver accurate and high-quality research and data analysis.
• Attention to detail.
• Computer literacy in Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• The ability to organize, prioritize and work systematically.
• Good communication skills.
• The ability to respect and maintain confidentiality.
• Skilled to work as a part of the team as well as independently.
• A valid SA driver’s license and/or own transport will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

• Maintenance of assets and infra-structure.
• Ensure that assets are well maintained, and structures are well constructed in order to contribute to execution of core business.
• Maintenance and use of tools and equipment, some of which are motorized.
• Be versatile and capable maintaining/repairing/constructing/assets in various areas such as plumbing, electricity and building.
• Handling of solid organic materials during processing and storage
• Adhere to health safety regulations.
• Repairs/ project according to job requests.

Job Requirements

• Grade 12/Matric qualification.
• Experience in occupational health and safety will be added an advantage

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 20 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

Transaction Processing and Compliance:

• Requisition Oversight - Manage requisitions to ensure alignment with client needs, compliance with regulations, and timely processing.
• Effective Sourcing and Ordering - Efficiently source quotations, manage responses, and process orders while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
• Supplier and Product Compliance - Ensure approvals, especially for single-source and capital items, in accordance with relevant regulations.
• Regulatory Adherence - Strictly comply with SCM policies, the PFMA, treasury regulations, PPPFA, and other procurement related legislation and promptly address irregularities.
• Value-based Procurement - Handle requisitions based on their value, including issuing RFQs and conducting pre-screening as required.
• Purchase Order Management - Proficiently manage and amend purchase orders for accuracy and compliance, with continuous monitoring of requisition progress.
• Internal Control Compliance - Ensure internal control compliance with ARC policies and relevant legislation.
• Direct Support for Research - Act in direct support of the research function.
• Co-ordinate tender process - Specifications, advertising, evaluation and awarding.

Handling Queries and Reports:

• Requisition and Challenge Reporting - Regularly report on outstanding requisitions and challenges faced, providing detailed reasons for delays.
• Irregular Expenditure Reporting - Report irregular expenditure immediately with the necessary documentation and rationale.
• Progress Reporting - Provide monthly progress reports for procurement activities, Including capital items and facility projects.
• Document Management - Efficiently scan and file purchase orders, ensuring accurate records and accessibility.

Attendance of Meetings:

• Bid Adjudication Meeting Participation - Actively participate in Bid Adjudication Meetings and contribute to procurement decisions and evaluations.
• Supplier Sourcing and Risk Management - Source and evaluate relevant suppliers from the central database, and ensure risks related to procurement management are addressed.
• Supplier Follow-up - Follow up on unpaid suppliers and ensure invoices are settled within 30 days.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma in Supply Chain Management/ Procurement / Logistics, Purchasing / Public Administration or related field.
• B Degree will be an added advantage.
• 3-year experience as a Buyer or equivalent position.
• Experience in a research environment in general will be an added advantage.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Good communication skills (written & verbal).
• The ability to establish & maintain working relationship with others.
• Knowledge of PFMA, PPPFA Act, Treasury Regulations, PPP2022 and other relevant legislation.
• Valid SA driver’s license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:  20 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

Project Management & Coordination

The Senior Research Technician is responsible for conceptualising, designing, formulating, and initiating technical projects across the Institute; these         include leading the following aspects of project management:

• Project Planning and Initiation.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Project technical risk management. 

Research Support, Diagnostics and Other Services

The Senior Research Technician is responsible for implementing and managing of technical projects, these activities include the driving, leading and oversight of the following:

• Invention.
• Adoption, management, and use.
• Translation.
• Commercialisation. 

Technology Transfer

The Senior Research Technician is responsible for implementing and managing technology transfer initiatives in the institution, these are as follows:

• Intellectual Property Assessment.
• Prototype Development.
• Testing and Validation.
• Technology Partnerships.

Scientific Status Requirements

The Senior Research Technician is responsible for implementing and managing scientific research endeavours; these include the following activities:

• Innovation and Commercialisation.
• Project / Programme impact.

Safety, health, and Environment

The Senior Research Technician is Responsible for implementing and managing safety, health and environment compliance and standards, these include the following activities:

• Regulatory Compliance.
• Lab safety.
• Hazardous material disposal.

Human Capital Development

The Senior Research Technician is responsible for human capacity development, which includes:

• Project staff.
• Self-development.

Job Requirements

• MSc/MTech in Horticulture/Plant Production/Agronomy or related discipline, with 2 years applicable experience in scientific research OR B Degree/ BTech or B Hons Horticulture/Plant Production/Agronomy or related discipline, with 6 years applicable experience in scientific research.
• Registration with a scientific and/or professional body will be an added advantage.
• Agricultural Research knowledge and skills, including ability to set-up and manage research trials.
• Extensive knowledge of medicinal/industrial plant production systems.
• Good communication skills; verbal and written.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite and data management tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION:  19 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

Project Management & Coordination

The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research Projects across the Campus; these include aspects of:

• Planning, budgeting, monitoring, evaluation, reporting.
• Equipment and Consumables.
• Human Resources.
• Finances. 
• Risk Management and Mitigation.  

Research, Development, and Innovation

The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of research, development, and innovation, these include:

• Invention.
• Translation.
• Commercialization.
• Adoption and Use.

Research Collaboration

• The Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include the supporting and coordination of:
• Strategic Research partnerships / networks.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration.
• National Collaboration

Human Capacity Development

The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes:

• Project staff and students.
• Self-development.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Plant Physiology, Plant Biotechnology, Plant Production, Botany, Horticulture, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years relevant experience in plant tissue culture –related research.
• A minimum of 12 peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Experience in plant tissue culture method development and validation.
• Experience in project management, postgraduate student supervision or mentoring.
• Experience in external income generation related to economic plants (including essential oil and industrial plants) propagation and cultivation R&D is an added advantage.
• Agricultural research knowledge and skills.
• Good communication skills (verbal and written).
• Computer literacy.
• Valid driver’s license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION:  19 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

Maintenance of assets and infrastructure

• Well maintained assets.
• Correct quality standard.
• Completion of tasks.
• Assets well maintained to contribute to core business.

Maintenance and use of tools and equipment

• Equipment clean and in working order.
• Correct use according to specs.
• Assist manager with stock levels.
• Assist manager with register for tools. 

Occupational Health and Safety

• Visible use of safety equipment.
• Compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Ensure Workshop is clean for compliance and future use.

Assist with Repairs of equipment

• Repair of equipment.
• Working overtime in crises situation.
• Working standby as and when required.
• This includes all aspects of work phase.
• Including (11 Kva lines).

Installing of Equipment

• Installing of new Equipment.

Assistant with Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC and refrigeration work

• Installation and Repairs.
• Troubleshooting and Problem- Solving.
• Perform support and Ad hoc services.
• Attend and complete job card request.
• Performance duties under guidance and Supervision of Artisan.

Job Requirements

• National Senior Certificate (Grade 12).
• 1 to 2 years’ experience in wide range of artisan work.
• Knowledge and understanding of Plumbing or Electrical will be an added advantage.
• Knowledge in Occupational Health and Safety.
• Communication and Planning skills.
• Valid Driver’s License.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

• Demand Planning: Collaborating with various departments and stakeholders to understand their requirements and forecast demand for goods and services. Analysing historical data, market trends, and business needs to develop accurate demand forecasts and plans.
• Strategic Sourcing:Developing and executing procurement strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives. Evaluating potential suppliers and negotiating contracts to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of goods and services. Identifying opportunities to optimize sourcing processes and reduce costs.
• Contract Management: Managing the entire lifecycle of contracts, from drafting and negotiating to executing and monitoring.
• Ensuring that contracts comply with legal and regulatory requirements while mitigating risks and maximizing value for the organization.
• Monitoring contract performance, addressing issues, and overseeing contract renewals or terminations.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Developing and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and vendors. Collaborating with them to improve quality, delivery, and cost-efficiency.
• Conducting performance evaluations and holding regular meetings to address issues and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Demand Forecasting and Analysis: Using data analysis and forecasting techniques to accurately predict future demand for goods and services.
• Monitoring market trends, customer demands, and internal factors to ensure adequate supply and minimize inventory or stockouts.
• Cost Control and Budgeting: Managing procurement budgets and expenditures to ensure cost control and adherence to financial constraints. Implementing cost-saving initiatives, negotiating favorable pricing, and optimizing procurement processes to achieve cost efficiency.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and ethical standards throughout the procurement and contract management processes. Identifying and mitigating risks associated with procurement activities and contract management.
• Continuous Improvement: Continuously reviewing and enhancing procurement, demand planning, and contract management processes and procedures.

Job Requirements

• A Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management / Logistics / Purchasing.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in SCM operations or similar roles and three (3) years of which should be at supervisory role.
• Experience with managing teams across geographical spread.
• Experience in end-to-end SCM lifecycle and proven track record of SCM process efficiencies and effectiveness.
• Implementation experience in PFMA, PPPFA and National Treasury Regulations, Directives and Policies.
• A Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration will be advantageous.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 19 MARCH 2026.

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Job Description

• Render a professional statistical consulting service to researchers.
• Design scientifically viable, cost-effective experiments.
• Conduct timely, accurate and efficient statistical data analysis and clear interpretation of results.
• Collaborate in evaluation of and assistance with project reports and scientific publications and theses.
• Present training designed to enhance efficiency and improve outputs.
• Mentor students and advise colleagues, on specific statistical aspects.
• Author or co-author articles in accredited peer reviewed journals.

Job Requirements

• MSc with majors in Biometry, Statistics, Genetics, Mathematics or Mathematical Statistics.
• At least 2 years post-graduate experience that includes biometric/statistical consulting.
• Experience in biometric support to research projects, including design of experiments, statistical data analysis, interpretation, and representation of research results.
• Understanding priorities and challenges facing the agricultural sector.
• Skilled to communicate complex statistical concepts to non-statistical stakeholders.
• Capability to build and manage relationships with researchers, and stakeholders.
• Good communication, interpersonal and training skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proven proficiency with Microsoft packages and statistical software packages such as SAS, Genstat, XLSTAT and/or R.
• Experience with machine learning techniques will be an advantage.
• Ability to publish in statistical or agricultural related fields of research (co-authored peer reviewed publications in accredited journals).
• Registered member of SACNASP (SA Council for Natural Scientific Professions).

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 19 MARCH 2026

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Job Description

• Contributes towards project(s) and performs activities under supervision.
• Participates in the project in a learning capacity and supervises as delegated.
• Assists with compiling and managing project budgets.
• Participates in proposal writing in a learning capacity - under supervision.
• Participates in planning and coordinating research under supervision.
• Assists with managing project resources (equipment and research material) - under supervision.
• Participates in conducting research under supervision.
• Assists in capturing, analysing, and interpreting data under supervision.
• Participates in the compilation of reports under supervision.
• Participates in presenting oral and poster contributions under mentorship.
• Participates in writing publications under supervision.
• Participates in diagnostic and advisory services under supervision.
• Starts building working relationships with stakeholders and research organizations.
• Assists in training of support staff

Job Requirements

• BSc Degree or BSc. Hons (Agriculture, Ecology, Biology, Botany, or Rangeland Sciences) equivalent 4-year science degree in the relevant field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment.
• Evidence of being in the process of submitting a minimum of 1 peer reviewed scientific publication.
• Proven record of presenting research at national and/or international conferences.
• Proven experience in working with large teams and on multiple projects at the same time.
• Experience in setting up trials, collecting and statistically analysing data
• Experience in conducting both field trials e.g. veld assessments, cultivar evaluation trials or feeding trials and lab/controlled trials e.g. germination trials and glasshouse trials
• Experience in specimen curation will be an added advantage.
• Proven record of contributing to funding applications will be an added advantage.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.

 NB: APPLICANT WHO APPLIED PREVIOUSLY MUST NOT REAPPLY.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 March 2026