AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC) VACANCIES

​ 
 
 
DALRRD RESEARCH TECHNICIAN PLANT BREEDING (MPIC) X7 (THREE (3) YEAR FIXED TERM CONTRACT) 
Roodeplaat
Job Ref #: ARC-VIMP0929
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

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

 
Requirements:

• BSc degree or National Diploma (3 years) in Plant Breeding / Horticulture / Plant Production; or a relevant 2-year qualification at a recognised institution plus 3 years applicable experience.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under open-field conditions.
• Good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, irrigation systems (installation, operation and maintenance), and sustainable field management.
• Experience and good understanding of cannabis and industrial crops production will be an added advantage.
• Experience and good understanding of plant breeding and cultivar descriptions will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Willing to travel nationally at regular intervals for monitoring and evaluation of off-site production trials.
• A valid driver’s license.

 
Enquiries: Dr WS Jansen van Rensburg, Tel: (012) 808 8000
 
CLOSING DATE APPLICATIONS: 04 OCTOBER 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees. 
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY
 
 
 
 
 

​ 
 
 
 
 
ARTISAN ASSISTANT
Roodeplaat
Job Ref #: ARC-VIMP0930
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Be versatile and capable of maintaining/repairing/constructing assets in various areas such as plumbing or HVAC equipment’s according to job requests.
• Maintenance of plumbing or HVAC equipment’s around the campus.
• Assist with any admin requests within the unit.

 
Requirements:

• Grade 12 / Matric qualification and relevant 1 to 2 years’ experience working within Artisan environment on plumbing or HVAC on general building. 
• Driver’s license Code 8 or 10.
• Adhere to OHS Regulations.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to perform routine work.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills.

 
 
Enquiries: Mr. Takalani Tuwani, Email: ttuwani@arc.agric.za
 
Closing Date for Applications: 04 October 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
 
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.
 
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies.
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY
 
 
 
 
 

​ 
 
 
 
 
 
RESEARCH TEAM MANAGER: SOIL SCIENCE (READVERTISEMENT)
Pretoria
Job Ref #: ARC-NRE10
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Initiation, management and implementation of national/international research and innovation projects within the area of responsibility of their research team.
• Providing leadership across specialised research fields and value chains.
• Managing all human resources aspects and communication within the area of responsibility of their research team (e.g. performance management, employee relations and wellness) and being custodians of change management.
• Identifying long-term budget requirements and being accountable for compiling and managing project budgets.
• Leading, developing, writing and negotiating project proposals with national/international funders for research within the area of specialty, and actively sourcing new national/international research opportunities and collaboration.
• Managing the quality of science of the research programme including setting and maintaining the quality of accepted scientific standards of excellence within the discipline.
• Provision of scientific leadership and guidance regarding specific research field as well as quality control of all scientific outputs (project proposals, scientific and popular publications, technical reports, and scientific presentations).
• Marketing research projects within the programme through the establishment of appropriate networks, partnerships and collaboration both nationally and internationally. This includes stakeholder engagements to build new and maintain existing relationships/partnerships.

 
Requirements:

• PhD in Soil Science.
• At least 8-10 years’ post-PhD experience.
• At least 8-10 years’ experience in the management of research teams.
• Minimum of 20 peer-reviewed publications.
• Proven research and managerial track record in Soil Science.           
• Proven experience in attracting externally funded projects, and networking with national/international clients and stakeholders.
• Financial and personnel management, marketing and negotiation skills.
• Scientific leadership and mentoring skills.
• NRF rating would be an added advantage.
• Registration with a scientific or professional body would be an added advantage.
• Candidate should demonstrate ability to work in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural research team.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Valid driver’s license (code 08/EB).

 
Enquiries: Dr MP Maila, Email: MailaM@arc.agric.za
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 SEPTEMBER 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees.
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY
 
 
 
 
 

​ 
 
 
 
 
PROJECT MANAGER: BGP2 & TIA (FIXED TERM CONTRACT) 
Onderstepoort
Job Ref #: ARC - BTP11/05
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Coordinate and manage the execution of Beef Genomics Programme, in the context of the Beef Genomics Program Consortium and in line with the contractual obligations of the Agricultural Research Council.
• Coordinate internal resources with third parties and vendors for execution of the project.
• Coordinate and compile all reports – both progress, technical and financial – to the different stakeholders. This includes coordinating and preparing all the internal reports and documents (for approval) and all external, approved documents to adhere to the contractual requirements.
• Chair and minute all Consortium meetings.
• Ensure all Supply Chain Management processes are performed as needed, including annual price negotiations, contract renewals, etc.
• Prepare and manage project budgets as well as facilitating payments, invoicing, etc.
• Ensure all project deliverables are delivered on time, within scope and within budget.
• Ensure resource availability and allocation.
• Maintain and monitor the project execution plan and track progress.
• Manage changes to the project scope, schedule, and costs using the appropriate techniques and approvals.
• Measure and track the project performance in relationship to milestones with the appropriate tools and techniques.
• Manage the relationship among all stakeholders within the Consortium.
• Perform risk management to minimize project risk and inform the Consortium of potential risks to the project.
• Establish and/or maintain relationships with third parties, vendors, etc.
• Establish and maintain comprehensive project documentation for project reporting, auditing, operations, etc.
• Meet all budgetary objectives, and provide recommendations on financial analyses against the milestones, budgets, etc to the Steering committee for approval and implementation.
• Attend all Consortium and relevant Stakeholder meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Develop all the spreadsheets, diagrams, process maps, etc. documents required.

 
Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• 8 years proven working experience in project management at internationally acceptable level.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Solid organizational skills including attention to detail and multitasking skills.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) membership will be an added advantage.
• Preferences will be given to candidates with these requirements and an understanding of the South African Agricultural Sector.

 
Enquiries: Dr Dirk Swanevelder: Tel: 012 529-9472

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 27 SEPTEMBER 2024
 
APPLY
 
 
 
 
 

​ 
 
 
 
 
HYGIENE ASSISTANT X8 (SIX 6 MONTHS FIXED TERM CONTRACT) 
ROODEPLAAT
Job Ref #: ARC-VIMP0928
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Maintain general cleaning of all areas including floors, surfaces, restrooms and common areas. (i.e. dusting, sweeping, mopping, polishing, cleaning windows and walls),
• Ensure that relevant laboratory glassware and equipment is cleaned, maintained, and stored correctly.
• Washing of laboratory coats and replenishment of other PPE in designated areas.
• Emptying of dustbins on a daily basis and ensure SHE bins are properly managed.
• Compliance with cleaning best practice and with all Occupational Health and Safety & Environment (OHSE) regulations as well as HCM policies and procedures

 
Requirements:

• Qualification: Grade 10 plus 3 years relevant experience in cleaning of laboratory and office space. 
• Basic understanding of different types of waste. 
• Experience in cleaning general laboratory equipment will be an added advantage. 
• Good verbal communication skills. 
• Compliance with safety standards as prescribed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. 

 
 
Enquires: Mr. Eric Mathisa at (012) 808 8000
 
Closing Date for Applications: 27 September 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
 
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.
 
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies.
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY
 
 
 
 
 
 

​
RE-ADVERT: DALRRD RESEARCHER – DNA MARKER TECHNOLOGIES (THREE (3) YEAR FIXED TERM APPOINTMENT)
Roodeplaat
Job Ref #: ARC-VIMP0918
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Initiates and manages existing research projects on DNA marker technologies including molecular breeding to support breeding programmes.
• Together with breeders, designs and implements molecular breeding research experiments in support of the various breeding programmes.
• Keeps the division abreast with new developments on DNA marker technologies by reviewing new publications & research reports.
• Actively sources and secures new research opportunities and contributes to proposals for own research and towards the proposals of others.
• Compiles own and contributes to other progress reports (internal and external).
• Captures analyses and interprets data.
• Contributes towards the creation of IP and PBR.
• Provides supervision and mentors postgraduate students, research technicians and assistants. Understands management of co-workers and mentees.
• Disseminates technology through peer-reviewed scientific articles, popular publications, etc.
• Seeks networking opportunities (attends scientific gathering, working with farmer communities, etc.).
• Compliance with human resource policies and procedures.
• Ensures compliance with SHE/OHS policies and procedures.

 
Requirements:

• PhD in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Proteomics, Plant breeding or Genetics; or MSc Plant Biotechnology or related with eight years relevant work experience.
• Strong background and experience in genomics and applications of molecular tools and latest molecular breeding technologies.
• Experience in the use of Bioinformatics and other genetic data analysis tools.
• Authored or co-authored a minimum of five peer-review scientific publications in a related field.
• Demonstrable experience in project management.
• Management skills including research projects, time, and personnel management.
• Good communication (verbal & writing) skills and liaison with clients, fellow scientists and support staff.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures.
• Valid code 8 driver’s license.

 
Enquires: Dr I Gazendam: (012) 808 800
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 27 SEPTEMBER 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees. 
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY

​
HEAVY MACHINE OPERATOR (INCINERATOR)
Onderstepoort
Job Ref #: ARC - OVR10/14
Industry: Freight/Shipping/Transport/Import/Export
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Ensure waste is sorted before incinerated.                                
• Ensure waste is clearly marked and labelled.                           
• Ensure waste is kept in controlled area and secured.              
• Ensure ash is removed and disposed correctly and securely.  
• Monitor incinerator temperature and report any faults.             
• Ensure waste is weighed from both internal and external clients.
• Safe keeping of the record book.                         
• Ensure scale works properly.                                                    
• Ensure the site is clean and maintained.                                  
• Ensure strict access into the site.                          
• Ensure there is enough safety material for execution of tasks i.e face masks and earmuffs.                                
• Ensure incoming waste is packed in complying packets and clearly marked.                                     
• Ensure the site is locked after working hours.                         
• Attend safety meetings and briefings.                                   
• Ensure waste is recorded correctly and forwarded to office for invoicing.                         
• Attending to incinerator related enquiries.                                
• Recording of weekly diesel levels.                       
• inspect and report any faults with the machinery.                    
• Minor machinery maintenance i.e. ash removal.                     
• Dumping site maintenance.

 
Requirements:

• Matric, Driver's License will be added advantage.
• Knowledge of applicable safety laws related to farm machinery.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and highly safety conscious.

 
 
Enquiries: Ms Kedibone Mahanayele, Tel: (012) 529 9176
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 25 SEPTEMBER 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.
 
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees.
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

APPLY

​
CHIEF RESEARCH TECHNICIAN -QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS 
Irene (Ap)
Job Ref #: AP16
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Market Related
 
Description:

• Managing the Microbiology Laboratory as an ongoing project.
• Budgeting and keeping track of project income and expenditure.
• Advising clients on analyses necessary to give them the information required.
• Quoting on work that can be done. Doing analyses when necessary.
• Communicating with clients on procedures for sending samples, payment, etc.
• Accepting and registering samples as per clients' requirements.
• Delegating work to staff members.
• Keeping track of the progress of work in the microbiology laboratory.
• Checking and approving results and signing test reports.
• Generating invoices and statements and following up on payments.
• Handling complains or queries from clients about results.
• Organising repairs to laboratory equipment.
• Organising the generation of requisitions, timesheets, and leave applications.
• Organising purchase orders, receipt of goods, and sending of invoices for payment.
• Compiling of monthly project reports.
• Carrying out any requests from Finance, SC Management, and HR.
• Overseeing the maintenance of accreditation with ISO 17025.
• Approving, submitting, and evaluating proficiency testing results.
• Investigating non-conforming work and non-compliance, initiating corrective actions, and doing risk analysis.
• Initiating improvements in procedures. Developing and adapting methods.
• Revising methods, procedures, and controlled documents.
• Performance evaluation of laboratory staff.
• Training staff, evaluating, declaring competence, and issuing authorizations.

 
Requirements:

• An MSc degree in Microbiology (or equivalent NQF9) plus 10 years applicable experience, OR B Hons degree/ B-Tech Degree (or equivalent NQF8) plus 15 years applicable experience.
• The applicable experience MUST be in microbiological food and feed analysis or the food or feed industry.
• Knowledge of at least the following analyses: Bacillus cereus presumptive, enumeration, Bifidobacterium spp (cultured products and bacterial cultures) enumeration, Coliforms and Escherichia coli (milk & dairy products) enumeration, Coliforms and Escherichia coli (food & feed, meat & meat products) enumeration, Salmonella spp. Presumptive, detection, Total aerobic count, enumeration, etc.
• Knowledge and experience in accreditation with ISO 17025 are imperative.
• Experience as a technical signatory with ISO 17025 will be an added advantage.
• A valid Code EB driver's license.

 
 
Enquiries: Dr. M MATANDABUZO: Tel: 012 672 9203
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 25 September 2024
 
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
 
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.
 
NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees.
 
SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.
 
APPLY