Trending Jobs at Agricultural Research Council

Description
Programme/sla & centres of excellence (coes) coordination.

• Oversee and coordinate the development, establishment and coordination of innovation hub for research, the Centres of Excellence and DoA SLA.
• Overseeing all aspects of programme coordination, including project planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Establishing research chairs/focus areas for the advancement of agricultural knowledge and policy development.
• Developing long-term research goals and objectives for the innovation hub and centres of excellence aligned with the agricultural organization's mission and strategic priorities.
• Provide strategic oversight and leadership within the organisation with regards to research themes and scientific programmes of priority under the SLA.

Financial management and Resource Mobilisation.

• Identifying funding opportunities, facilitating the preparing of grant proposals/proposals, and securing external funding to support research initiatives.
• Budget Oversight: Managing research program budgets, allocating resources effectively, and ensuring financial sustainability.
• Coordinating resource mobilisation for the Centres of excellence and Research Hub.

Monitoring, evaluation and reporting

• Establish framework for monitoring and evaluation of progress and develop the processes for monitoring and evaluation.
• Monitor and evaluate progress, including monitoring of meeting deadlines and achievement of milestones.
• Establish a framework for ensuring research activities comply with regulatory requirements, ethical standards, and institutional policies.
• Keep executive and senior management informed with detailed and accurate reports or presentations.
• Implementation of the technical and steering committees, and the reporting requirements as outlined in the preamble to the SLA.

Stakeholder Management and Relationship Building

• Develop, lead and coordinate collaboration and partnerships with various research Institutions and universities nationally and internationally, industry stakeholders, farmers, government departments and agencies to enhance research outcomes and leverage resources.
• Stakeholder Management of Directors and Chief Directors and responding to their day-to-day requests within the context of the SLA and for new initiatives.

Team Leadership

• Provide leadership oversight to senior and executive managers, fostering collaboration, and providing guidance on research priorities and collaboration and funding opportunities.
• Supervise all SLA program and project managers involved to provide feedback and resolve complex problems.
• Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed.

Advocacy and Outreach

• Policy Influence, including the engagement with policymakers to inform evidence-based agricultural policies and regulations that support innovation, sustainable practices, and resilience in agriculture.
• Public Engagement and Outreach includes the facilitation of effective communication of research findings to stakeholders, and the general public to enhance awareness, understanding, and support for agricultural research and its societal benefits.
• Promote awareness of research outcomes and societal impact
• Representing the organization in agricultural research forums, advocating for research funding and policy support, and enhancing public awareness of research achievements.

Requirements

• PhD or Doctorate Degree in Agriculture related field.
• At least 10 years’ experience on senior management level.
• SACNASP or other relevant professional registration will be added advantage.

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Description

• Responsible for providing strategic HR support and guidance to senior leaders and managers in the Business Unit. HCM Manager will work closely with key stakeholders to develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives that support the overall business objective.  
• Provide guidance and direction to business leaders on human resource management policies, processes and systems and ensure compliance with HR laws and regulations.
• Partner with Centre of Excellence (ARC Central Office) to ensure Execution of ARC HCM Strategy initiatives are implemented at the Business Unit.
• Diagnose organizational gaps between current and desired organization performance and deploy actions to resolve gaps, including organization redesign, process change, coaching and training.
• Manage the HCM Team and ensure that performance management is adhered.
• Ensure Implementation of Talent Management Framework.
• Ensure organization practices align with the ARC mandate develop an agile high-performance organisation (HIPO) culture and drive the employee engagement recommendations.
• Drive employee transformation in the Campuses (adhering to employment equity targets, providing support to the Transformation Committee.
• Ensure Implementation of performance management system is conducted in all Performance cycles from contracting, assessments and feedback coaching and Performance Improvement Plans.
• Advocate employee communications processes that inform employees as well as assure two-way communications between employees and management.
• Manage employee relations issues and provide guidance and advice on conflict resolution and employee discipline.
• Support organizational change initiatives, and partner with managers to ensure successful implementation.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management /Industrial Psychology/Bachelor of Administration (Major in HRM)/B. Com Human Resource Management.
• A Postgraduate qualification will be advantageous.
• 5-7 years relevant experience as HCM Generalist.
• At least Minimum of 3-5yrs managing a team.
• Experience in Agricultural and Public Sector will be an added advantage.
• Knowledge and experience of HR information management systems, data analytics, especially SAGE 300.
• Strong knowledge of HR laws and regulations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills, and ability to use HR metrics and data to drive decision-making.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team and manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong coaching and mentoring skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work with senior leaders and influence decision-making.
• Client-focused & customer service disposition.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and exercise confidentiality.
• Organising skills.
• Valid driver’s License.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Registration with SABPP or another professional body in the human capital field would be an added advantage.

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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.
• Utilises 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.

Requirements

• Grade 12 (NQF 4) plus 3 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Or Grade 10 (NFQ 2) plus 10 years relevant experience in Crop Protection or Agronomy.
• Relevant experience in cultivation of vegetable crops in open field and/or in tunnels.
• Experience in pest management in a greenhouse and associated sanitation procedures.
• 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.

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Description

• Initiate/manage research projects related to plant tissue culture.
• Write proposals and manage project budgets.
• Write publications/present research outcomes of relevance to subtropical fruit growers, industries and the scientific community.
• Provide leadership and mentoring to research technicians, assistants and students.
• Develop and optimise protocols for micropropagation of tropical and subtropical crops (from in vitro stage to acclimatisation).
• Manage operations in biotechnology laboratory as well as nursery (shade house and tunnel).
• Maintain gene banks for conservation purposes (in the nursery and in vitro).
• Liaise with growers, industry technical officers, national and provincial government.

Requirements

• PhD in Plant Biotechnology or Biological/Life/Natural Sciences with specialization in Plant Biotechnology (plant tissue culture).
• Minimum of 3 years applicable experience in research support in plant tissue culture applications.
• In depth knowledge of Plant Biotechnology with a particular emphasis on plant tissue culture technologies (micropropagation). Experience with cryopreservation will be an advantage.
• Technical knowledge of glasshouse/nursery management.
• Proven record of at least 3 scientific publications and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Proven history of collaboration at national level.
• Proven history of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising researchers and students.
• Advanced Computer Literacy.
• Valid driver’s license.

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Description

• Supervise outsourced security guarding services.
• Conduct site inspections, draft job descriptions, organize monthly meetings.
• Monitor security daily routine activities.
• Perform job observations and performance assessments of security officers.
• Assist with service provider administration, ensure compliance with Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Conduct security patrols and inspections.
• Conduct after hours inspections.
• Supervise the security functions pertaining to access control, key control, office security and contingency planning.
• Maintain existing electronic security systems and assist in project implementation.
• Identify risks and threats.
• Assess vulnerabilities in ARC’s security and capacity to counteract them.
• Compile monthly and quarterly reports on security operations.
• Respond to reported security breaches.
• Working after hours.
• Conduct basic investigations on security incidents.
• Report on security incidents and risks.
• Liaise with local law enforcement agencies.
• Ensure compliance with security standards.
• Adhere to Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS), Minimum Physical Security Standards (MPSS) and ARC’s security policy.
• Run a physical security awareness program within ARC and conduct workshops/ training for contracted security officers.

Requirements

• Grade 12 Certificate.
• Registration with PSIRA and minimum of grade B certificate.
• 1-year tertiary Certificate in Security Risk Management or Equivalent will be an advantage
• Valid driver’s license
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a security supervisory role.
• Significant experience in the implementation, management, and maintenance of electronic security systems such as CCTV, access control, alarm systems, and other surveillance technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising outsourced security services, performance monitoring, and compliance with Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Practical experience in conducting comprehensive security risk assessments, identifying threats and vulnerabilities, and developing effective mitigation strategies.
• Experience in responding to and investigating security breaches and incidents, including liaising with law enforcement and compiling detailed incident reports.
• Experience in ensuring compliance with relevant security standards and regulations, such as Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS) and Minimum Physical Security Standards (MPSS).
• Experience conducting security audits.
• Experience in implementing and managing emergency response plans and procedures.
• Proven ability to manage crises effectively, coordinating with internal teams and external emergency services.
• Proven ability to promote security awareness and best practices within an organization.
• Experience liaising with law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and other relevant external bodies.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising security teams, with a strong emphasis on mentoring, coaching, and developing personnel.
• Experience in fostering a culture of security excellence and ensuring team alignment with organizational security goals.

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Description

• Successful initiation, coordination and completion of research projects in compliance with set standards, client needs and specifications.
• Coordination and support of strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include the supporting and coordination of strategic research partnerships, networks and collaborators.
• Ensure well-customised technology transfer/ training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, courses and other events according to client needs.
• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.
• Ensure that allocated budgets are managed in a cost-effective and proactive manner including timeously execution of financial administrative activities/task in compliance with the prescribed financial procedures and policies of the ARC. 

Requirements

• PhD in Entomology.
• At least 5 years’ experience in a relevant scientific research environment.
• Knowledge and experience in Entomology in line with the division’s strategic focus on pest identification and integrated pest management of pests of grapevine and deciduous fruit.
• A proven peer-reviewed scientific publications record.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects.
• Proven record of accomplishment of research leadership as a senior researcher in Entomology.
• Proven history of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students.

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Description

• Manage, co-ordinate and monitor the implementation of labour relations policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement labour relations and Employment Equity strategies to ensure compliance.
• Manage the collective bargaining process and conflict resolution for the entire organisation.
• Ensure the promotion of sound labour peace including effective management of dispute settlement, grievances and discipline.
• Represent ARC in relevant forums including conciliation and arbitration at CCMA.
• Provide expert labour relations advice to managers and employees.
• Maintain awareness of and communicate to all staff any relevant changes in all labour legislations.
• Provide and maintain guidelines for EE plan.
• Establish and maintain sound relations with organized labour.
• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act as well as related regulations.
• Ensures the implementation of an effective EAP plan.

Requirements

• LLB /Bachelor’s Degree in Labour Relations or Labour Law
• A Postgraduate qualification in Labour Law/Industrial Relations will be an advantage.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in an IR/ER role.
• Experience working in scientific research environment will be an added advantage.
• Experience with IR/ER, CCMA, and Disciplinary Enquiries etc. In depth knowledge of Labour.

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Description

• Assist the plant breeder with making crosses, selections and evaluations of honeybush and rooibos breeding material.
• Assist with planting, harvesting and maintenance of honeybush and rooibos trials.
• Assist with collecting data for various characteristics of honeybush and rooibos.
• Assist Fynbos nursery manager with maintenance of plants and Fynbos nursery (honeybush, rooibos and proteas.)
• Assist with producing high quality plants for research trials and evaluation, either vegetative or seedlings, including in vitro plants.
• Assist with research on improving the quality and survival of propagated plants.
• Contribute to smooth running of the Crop Development Division.

Requirements

• Grade 12 / Senior Certificate.
• Experience in propagation and maintenance of plants and orchards, data collection and working in a research environment.
• Ability to read and write.
• Accurate and meticulous in their work.
• Willingness to work in nursery, laboratory and in orchards.
• Willingness to work beyond regular working hours and to spend nights away from home.
• Willingness to work in adverse weather conditions.
• Experience of indigenous plants, computer skills and a valid driver’s license will be an added advantage.

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Description

• Apply statistical models appropriate for evaluation of on farm and on-station animal performance of breeds/ecotypes within the various projects.
• Monitors animal performance data within the community-based breeding programs.
• Contribute to the development of scientific manuscripts and publish in high impact scientific journals.
• Support the development of animal performance evaluation systems /work plans / guidelines; leads and coordinates research activities.
• Design and conduct on-farm experiments, supports capacity building on research, data collection, and implementation of community-based breeding programs.
• Communicate on-farm research protocols and findings to target audience at community level meetings.
• Compile, summarize documents, and publishes research data into reports, briefs, journal articles, popular publications and newsletters.
• Conducts regular field visits to supervise data collection of the on-farm and breeding activities and follows-up with collaborators.
• Organize and facilitate project and stakeholder engagement workshops and interacts with internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide support in breeding and genetics data analysis.
• Perform other duties that may be assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

• BSc / Diploma / National Diploma in Animal Science, Animal Production.
• Two years of practical experience in Animal production, Breeding and Genetics will be added advantage.
• Experience in implementing livestock research Analysis of animal performance, genetic, and environmental data.
• Knowledge and demonstrated experience in livestock genetics and breeding including multivariate analysis and mixed linear models.
• Demonstrated ability to publish peer-reviewed papers.
• Experience in implementing experimental designs for various livestock systems.
• Experience and knowledge in qualitative and quantitative research methods and analyses used in animal genetic improvement programs.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel in and outside South Africa, and Collaborative skills and experience in working with multi-cultural teams.