Top Positions at Agricultural Research Council

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Glen, Free State province:

Job Description

Animal care

• Animal handling.
• Feeding cattle by hand.
• Cleaning feed wastage.
• Loading and off-loading animals.
• Monitor feed intake.

Animal care facilities

• To utilize and maintain facilities, apparatus and equipment in cost effective manner.
• Cleaning of kraals daily.
• Filling kraals with gravel.
• Fixing of kraals.
• Cutting lawn, and solving water problems.
• Timeous reporting of malfunctioning of gates water reticulation (checking, fixing, reporting) – General tasks.

Weighing and Record keeping offeed and feed consumption

• Control over feed equipment, feed and feed recording.
• Compliance to occupational health, and safety.
• Visible use and compliance with health and safety standards.
• Daily inspection of cattle and monitoring health status.
• Treatment if required.

Loading and offloading of animals

• Offloading of feed
• See that the feeding system is maintained

Job Requirements

• Grade 12 plus 3 years relevant experience or Grade 10 plus 5 years relevant experience or 15 years relevant experience.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Pretoria, Roodeplaat

Job Description

• Manages day to day activities at the National Forage Genebank including planning and coordinating seed collection activities and curation of the plant genetic resources maintained at the Genebank.
• Must have experience in data and specimen curation as well and database development and management.
• Builds collaboration between the National Forage Genebank and Cedara forage breeding campuses.
• Actively sources new national/international research opportunities.
• Identifies and pursue strategic research collaboration opportunities.
• Compiles detailed internal reports as well as reports to external funders.
• Conducts independent and specialised research as an internationally renowned senior research scientist.
• Publishes in peer reviewed / refereed journals with high impact factor, including books, chapters in books, and training courses. Meets peer norm requirements for specific field of expertise, with a minimum (on average) of 2 peer reviewed publications per year.
• Builds and maintains international and national relationships and networking opportunities.
• Supervise or co-supervise PhD and MSc students with an emphasis on critical and scarce skills.
• Comply with all occupational health and safety regulations.

Job Requirements

• A PhD or DSc in Botany, plant physiology, plant ecology, or related fields.
• At least 5 years post PhD experience or 5 years proven relevant experience on the level.
• Proven record of accomplishment that expertise and scientific standing is acknowledged at national and moving towards international level.
• Proven record of project management.
• Minimum 12 peer reviewed publications at date of appointment with a minimum (on average) of two peer-reviewed publications per year.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for research and projects, a minimum of national projects and initiated participation in international projects.
• Proven record of accomplishment of being an invited national speaker and actively participating as speaker internationally or being involved/invited as participant in national/international events of high importance.
• Proven record of accomplishment that expertise and scientific standing is acknowledged at national level and moving towards international level. Magnitude of measurable outcomes should be on national level, but increased international level should be visible with a clear record of accomplishment of high quality and high impact.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researcher and students' development. Supervise or co-supervise at least 2xPhD and 2xMSc every 5 years with an emphasis on critical and scarce skills. Minimum 5 students graduated.
• Proven track record of building national and international partnerships and networks.
• Proven track record of strategic and operational planning skills and expertise.
• Proven track record of minimum 5 students’ supervision in relevant fields of study.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage
• NRF rating of at least C1 or higher will be an added advantage.
• A valid South African driver’s license.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:  16 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position(s) at Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC-VIMP), Roodeplaat, Pretoria

Job Description

Administrative Support

• Provide comprehensive secretarial services, including managing schedules, correspondence, and meeting arrangements for the Senior Researcher, Researcher, and Research Team Manager.
• Maintain effective document management systems for reports, research data, and financial records.
• Ensure compliance with ARC’s administrative policies and procedures.
• Take minutes at all meetings and distribute them timeously.

Project Support

• Assist in the preparation, coordination, and monitoring of project timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to ensure efficient communication and project progress.

Procurement and Financial Administration

• Facilitate procurement processes, ensuring adherence to South African government policies and regulations.
• Prepare and track purchase orders, invoices, and payments using Sage accounting software.
• Support the preparation of project financial reports and audits.

 Communication and Stakeholder Management

• Manage a centralized stakeholder database, ensuring contact details, correspondence, and engagement histories are up to date.
• Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external communications, ensuring timely and professional responses.
• Coordinate communication with stakeholders, partners, and collaborators on behalf of the team, including drafting and distributing newsletters, invitations, and updates.
• Support the organization of stakeholder meetings, events, and workshops.

General Office Management

• Maintain office supplies and ensure the smooth operation of office equipment.
• Act as the primary point of contact for administrative inquiries and troubleshoot routine issues.
• Handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Personal Assistant Duties

• Manage travel arrangements, including booking accommodations and transport.
• Assist with event planning, including workshops, conferences, and team-building activities.
• Provide ad-hoc personal assistance to the Senior Researcher, Researcher, and Research Team Manager, including managing email and task prioritization.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma (NQF 6) in Secretarial, Office Administration, or related field.
• Degree (NQF 7) in Secretarial, Office Administration, or related field will be an added advantage.
• Minimum of three (3) years of secretarial or administrative experience.
• Project Management experience will be an added advantage.
• Knowledge of South African government procurement regulations and processes.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Ability to use initiative, be proactive and work independently and /or with the team.
• Familiarity with research environments or scientific organizations is an added advantage.
• A high degree of integrity, tact and confidentiality as well as a flexible approach to a busy workload are also very strong attributes for this position.
• Strong time-management skills.
• Valid driver’s license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 13 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position(s) at Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC-VIMP), Roodeplaat, Pretoria.

Job 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  
• Commercialization  
• 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  

Job Requirements

• PhD or Master's in plant pathology, microbiology, crop protection, biotechnology, or related field.
• At least three (3) years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment, post MSc with a national record of accomplishment on the level of a researcher.
• Experience in scouting for pest and diseases, isolation and identification of fungal pathogens.
• Collaboration: Record of building national and international partnerships and networks, (the researchers work under guidance and with support of seniors).
• Initiation, planning and execution of research projects.
• Minimum 3 to 5 peer reviewed publications or number of publications should be equivalent to what was required from master’s and PhD level for their field respectively.
• 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 on Master’s and PhD level. In this respect proven record of writing of proposals as part of masters and PhD studies.
• Proven record of participating as speaker nationally as part of Masters and PhD level. 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.
• A valid driver’s license will be an advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR THE APPLICATIONS: 13 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Onderstepoort, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Conduct research on the serological and immunochemical aspects of veterinary diseases.
• Manage data capture, do advanced analysis, interpret, and submit recommendations to the manager.
• Disseminate research results by presenting oral and poster contributions.
• Publish popular, semi-scientific, and peer-reviewed papers.
• Establish and maintain networking opportunities.
• Identify and generate intellectual property.
• Manage projects: initiate, manage, and contribute to national research projects.
• Manage human resources: identify the need for human resources and manage them.
• Manage project budgets: accountable for compiling and managing project budgets.
• Write and submit research proposals.
• Plan and co-ordinate research activities
• Identify and manage resource needs.
• Human capacity development: develop own capacity at an appropriate level.
• Identify and participate in own learning opportunities.
• Supervise or co-supervise students.

Job Requirements

• PhD OR MSc/ MTech with 3 years’ relevant experience in Virology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or related discipline.
• Project management experience of at least three (3) years post MSc.
• A track record of publications: a minimum of 3-5 peer-reviewed publications.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body (SAVC/SACNASP) will be an added advantage.
• Proven record of generating external income for research.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Irene, Pretoria:

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.

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Deciduous Fruit, Vines, and Wine (ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Stellenbosch.

Job Description

• Render and maintain a quality human resource administrative service that conforms to personnel needs and those of the organisation.
• Ensure that all human resources administration queries are dealt with in an accurate, timeous and professional matter.
• Effective coordination of performance management system.
• Render and maintain quality human resources benefits administration.
• Update staff records (appointments, resignations, terminations dismissals, transfers, promotions, leave reports, etc.).
• Coordinate staff recruitment and selection process by assisting line management to prepare notice of advertisement for vacant positions, participate in applicant interviews, conduct reference checks on possible candidates and prepare interview reports.
• Administration of labour relations.
• Effectively coordinate the reconciliation process of HR instruction to payroll.
• Render and maintain a quality Pension/Provident Fund administrative service.
• Comply with Occupational Health and Safety regulations.

Job Requirements

• National diploma/ Degree in Human Resources Management.
• Two years relevant experience in HR Environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of the VIP system will be an added advantage.
• A valid driver’s license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 17 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC- Animal Production (ARC- AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Irene.

Job Description

• Provide logistical support on recruitment and selection procedures to the line and departmental managers.
• Assist with the HCM administration such as on boarding and with the recruitment of students who will be linked to the DALRRD project.
• Adherence to HR policies and procedures in line with relevant legislature.
• Providing support to HCM Payroll Administrator on inputs to Payroll office.
• Render and maintain a quality human resources administrative service that conforms to personnel needs and those of the organization.
• Filing and keeping records of all personnel documents.
• Administration of the application processes relating to all training.
• Task related to relieving the Switchboard/Receptionist.
• Compiling the gross list for the various positions.
• Preparing interview packs as well as other logistics and drafting regret letters.
• Assist with the HCM administration such as onboarding and with the recruitment of students who will be linked to the DALRRD project and other HCM related activities.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma/ Degree in Human Resource Management or related.
• 2 years’ experience in HR related environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• A Team Player with a positive attitude and the ability to work independently, accurately, and reliably.
• A high degree of integrity and confidentiality as well as flexible approach to a busy workload.
• Strong organizational skills with an ability to multitask without losing the overview.
• Knowledge of the VIP system will be an added advantage.
• A valid driver’s license will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Ncera, Eastern Cape.

Job Description

• Ensure effective workshop maintenance and repairs.
• Conduct irrigation maintenance services.
• Ensure effective management of fleet, machinery, storage and workshop.
• Conduct effective facility and infrastructure maintenance operations.
• Ensure proper management of operations.
• Ensure effective provision of health safety risk management service.
• Manage mechanization projects and budgets in liaison with Centre Manager.
• Provide training on mechanization and maintenance of workshop tools and equipment.

Job Requirements

• N6 in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent qualification with a Trade Test Certificate.
• Diploma/Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Engineering will be an added advantage.
• 5 years of experience in a wide range of artisan work (Tractor maintenance and repairs, Mechanical, Irrigation, Maintenance of farm equipment and boreholes etc.).

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 16 March 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Irene, Pretoria:

Job Description

• Providing regular verbal and written feedback on field activities.
• Working closely with research personnel and assisting in achieving project deliverables.
• Ensuring accurate and timeous completion of assigned tasks.
• Maintaining data-collection equipment and ensuring cost-effective use of materials.
• Ensuring visible compliance with Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

Job Requirements

• Grade 12 .
• Good communication (written and verbal).
• Ability to do work routine and physically demanding work in adverse weather conditions.
• Experience working in a research project/environment will be an added advantage.
• Strong sense of responsibility, accuracy, and independence.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 09 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following positions at Cedara, KZN:

Job Description

• Initiates, manages and contributes towards national/ international forage breeding initiatives.
• Actively sources new national/ international research opportunities including writing research proposals.
• Build and maintain international and national relationships and networking opportunities.
• Plan and coordinate research with single or multi-disciplinary team.
• Conduct independent and advanced research.
• Develop, Maintain and Protect Plant Breeders Rights of the unit.
• Manages people within projects and compiles detailed reports to various stakeholders.
• Compiles detailed reports and approves final reports.
• Manages data capture and shows advanced analysis, interpretation, and recommendations.
• Publishes semi-scientific and peer reviewed articles and publishes in journals with a high impact factor.
• Supervise or co-supervise PhD and MSc students with an emphasis on critical and scarce skills.
• Complies with all occupational health and safety regulations.

Job Requirements

Senior Researcher

• PhD/DSc degree in Plant Breeding with Five (5) years post PhD relevant experience in plant breeding.
• Minimum of 12 peer reviewed publications at date of appointment.
• Proven record of plant breeders’ rights generated and new cultivars registered.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income.
• Proven record of initiating national projects and participation in international projects.
• Proven record of exposure and use of biotechnology applications to marker-assisted selection and modern breeding technologies and Biometrical Genetics.
• Practical experience and technical knowledge of appropriate research projects, financial and human resource management.
• Excellent Verbal and written communication skills.
• Generates income from commercialization of ARC IP for financially sustainable research teams.
• Experience in technology transfer through popular and peer-reviewed articles, presentations, and demonstrations.
• Demonstrated ability to attract external research funds and collaboration.
• A valid South African Driver’s license.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body and NRF rating will be an added advantage.

Researcher

• PhD/DSc degree and experience of research on master’s level of at least 3 years working experience as a plant breeder.
• Proven record of contributing to the development of plant breeders’ rights and new cultivars registered.
• A publication record with a minimum 3-5 peer reviewed publications already published with a record of additional work in progress.
• Record of presenting research at national and/or international conferences.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven record of exposure and use of biotechnology applications to marker-assisted selection and modern breeding technologies and Biometrical Genetics.
• Proven record of generating research funding and collaborations.
• Proven experience in working with large teams and on multiple projects at the same time.
• Proven track record of PhD and/or MSc student supervision in relevant fields of study.
• A valid South African Driver’s license.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body and NRF rating will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 17 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal.

Job Description

• Initiate/manage research projects on improved production methods and maintenance of propagation systems for tropical and subtropical fruit trees.
• Ensure optimal utilisation and maintenance of farm facilities and related equipment.
• Ensure that routine farm practices are timeously executed to ensure success of research projects.
• Manage farm and research staff.
• Write publications/present research outcomes to growers, industries and the scientific community.
• Write proposals and manage project budgets.
• Provide leadership and mentoring to research technicians, assistants and students.
• Liaise with growers, industry technical officers and national and provincial government.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Plant Production/Horticulture/Agronomy/Agricultural Management/Agriculture/Plant Breeding.
• Relevant experience of 3 years in a scientific research environment.
• Proven record of at least 3 scientific publications.
• History of collaboration and mentoring junior staff and students.
• Knowledge of Plant Production/Agricultural Management of tropical and subtropical crops.
• Code EB driver’s licence and ability to drive.
• Advanced Computer Literacy.
• Practical experience in farm management will be an advantage.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Addo, Eastern Cape.

Job Description

• Manages projects on breeding and evaluation of tropical and subtropical crops at Addo.
• Manages daily activities in research blocks in the field with assistance of support staff.
• Manages project budgets to ensure effective resource allocation (funds and labour).
• Compiles progress reports in the form of written reports and presentations.
• Identifies research opportunities and implements advanced breeding technologies.
• Supervision and management of Research Technicians and Research Support Assistants.
• Contributes towards technology transfer and training efforts.
• Liaise with growers, industry technical officers and national and provincial government.
• Write popular/scientific publications and present research outcomes to growers, industries and the scientific community.

Job Requirements

• MSc/MTech/equivalent in Plant Breeding/Genetics/Horticulture/Plant Production/Agriculture/Natural Sciences and 8 years applicable experience, or BSc. Hons and 10 years applicable experience.
• Proven ability to manage farm/research blocks in the field.
• Knowledge of plant breeding, horticultural production and management of field blocks is essential.
• Basic project and financial management skills.
• History of collaboration at national level.
• Advanced Computer Literacy.
• Code EB driver’s licence and proven ability to drive.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

Job Description

• Along with gene bank manager, manage field and nursery gene bank blocks at TSC research farms.
• Maintain existing gene bank database and upgrade to meet international norms in the field.
• Expand scope of existing field gene banks to include laboratory-based storage solutions using in vitro technologies.
• Ability to work in the field and laboratory.
• Compile monthly and quarterly progress reports in the form of written reports and presentations.
• Identify research opportunities and implement improved gene bank management technologies.
• Collects, captures and processes data.
• Provide leadership to Research Technicians, Assistants and Students.
• Good communication skills to liaise with Researchers, Research Support Assistants and Farm Managers for daily activities.
• Write popular/scientific publications and present research outcomes.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Horticulture/Plant Production/Agriculture/Biological/Natural Sciences.
• Knowledge on Occupational Health and Safety compliance.
• Advanced computer literacy.
• Code EB driver’s licence and ability to drive.
• Experience with database management will be an added advantage.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 MARCH 2026

go to method of application »

• The ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following positions at Roodeplaat, Pretoria

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.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 18 March 2026