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AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC) VACANCIES - 28 APRIL 2026
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC)
RE- ADVERT SENIOR MANAGER RESEARCH: VIMP (FIVE (5) YEAR FIXED TERM Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP 09107
Department: 09 - RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
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
· Resource Allocation:
o Managing budgetary and resource allocation to support the institution's mission and goals.
· Process Improvement:
o Identify and implement efficiencies to enhance service delivery and reduce costs.
· Strategic Planning:
o Collaborate with Executive Manager: Core, to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the institution's mission and vision.
· Lead and Direct:
o Lead and Direct the Institute’s Research Management Agenda.
· Shared Services Management:
o Collaborate with the Executive Management Shared Services/ Corporate Support, in overseeing the shared services functions within the institution, ensuring they operate cohesively and meet their respective objectives.
· Policy Implementation:
o Ensure that policies, procedures, and regulations are effectively communicated and adhered to throughout the Institute.
· Performance Evaluation:
o Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the institution's performance and make data-driven decisions.
· Risk Management:
o Identifying and mitigating operational risks and challenges that could impact the institution's mission or reputation.
· Stakeholder Relations:
o Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
· Innovation and Technology:
o Promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and practices to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
· Emergency Response and Continuity Planning:
o Implement plans for emergency response, business continuity, and disaster recovery.
· Compliance and Legal Affairs:
o Ensuring that the institution complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
· Human Resources Management:
o Collaborating with Human Capital Business Partner, oversee personnel, including hiring, training, and performance management, to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.
· Financial Management:
o Collaborating with Finance Business Partner, oversee campus’s finances and financial health, budget and cost management and financial reporting.
· Communication and Reporting:
o Providing regular updates to Executive leadership, governing boards, and other stakeholders on operational performance and progress toward goals.
· Conflict Resolution:
o Handling internal conflicts and disputes within the Institute in a fair and constructive manner.
· Crisis Management:
o Leading the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts.
· Ethical Leadership:
o Upholding and promoting ethical standards and values within the organization, setting a positive example for all employees.
· Stakeholder Engagement:
o Engaging with Stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns and ensuring the institution's services are responsive to those needs.
Job Requirements
- PhD in the related field, e.g. Vegetables/Industrial/Medicinal Crops Sciences (including Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology, Entomology, Biotechnology etc.).
- A minimum of ten (10) years’ relevant experience in research and development within the Crop Sciences environment.
- At least ten (10) years’ experience at middle management level.
- A minimum of 25 peer-reviewed scientific publications.
- Demonstrated strong research output and fundraising track record, including competitive grants.
- Proven capability in project and programme management, partnership development, and collaborative research.
- Excellent organizational, planning, monitoring, and control skills, with strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Sound performance and financial management skills, with demonstrated leadership and negotiation ability.
- Proven experience in personnel, financial and facilities management.
- Valid driver’s license, ability and willingness to travel (locally and abroad).
- Evidence of national and international scientific recognition.
- Demonstrated public speaking experience, including presentations, media engagements (e.g., radio & television), and poster or exhibition participation.
- Professional registration or membership with a relevant scientific body will be advantageous.
- Research Experience in Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Crops will be advantageous.
Enquiries: Dr Yolisa Pakela-Jezile, Tel: (012) 808 8000
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 MAY 2026
Candidates who have previously applied for this position need not re-apply, as their applications have already been received and will be taken into consideration.
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, competency/leadership assessments and preference will be given to designated groups (including people with disabilities) 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.
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.
RESEARCHER-NEW BREEDING TECHNOLOGY (THREE (3) FIXED TERM CONTRACT)
Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP 09120
Department: 09 - RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
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
- Initiates and manages existing research projects on new breeding technologies (NBT) including, mutation breeding and proteomics to support breeding programmes
- Together with breeders, designs and implements NBT research experiments in support of the various breeding programmes.
- Keeps the division abreast with new developments on NBT 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
Job Requirements
- PhD in Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Proteomics, Plant breeding or Genetics; OR MSc in one or more of these qualifications with three years of relevant work experience .
- Strong background and experience in genomics and proteomics applications on breeding.
- Experience in the use of Bioinformatics and other genetic data analysis tools is an added advantage.
- Experience and know-how in plant tissue culture systems (including knowledge on plant material propagation schemes) is an added advantage.
- Authored or co-authored a minimum of three peer-review scientific publications in a related field.
- Experience in breeding of root and tuber crops (sweet potatoes, potatoes, cassava, onion) is an added advantage.
- Proven record of participating as a speaker at conferences.
- Proven track record of mentoring and/or supervising/co-supervising students.
- Record of national and/or international partnerships and/or networks.
- Demonstrable experience in project management.
- Management skills including research projects, time, and personnel management.
- Proven record of writing proposals and generating external income.
- Good communication (verbal & writing) skills and liaison with clients, fellow scientists and support staff.
- Advanced computer literacy in MS Office suite.
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures.
- Registration with a relevant scientific registration body, where applicable
- NRF rating is also considered an added advantage.
- Valid code 8 driver’s license.
Enquiries: Prof Michael Bairu :(012) 808-8009
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:30 APRIL 2026
Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. 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, competency/leadership assessments and preference will be given to designated groups (including people with disabilities) 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.
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.
RE-ADVERT SENIOR RESEARCHER PLANT BREEDING
Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP09118
Department: 09 - RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
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 Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research Projects across the Institute; these include supporting and coordination of the following aspects of the projects
- Project 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 Senior Researcher is responsible for the coordination and supports the management of Research, development, and innovation, these include the supporting and coordination of the following Research aspects
- 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 / collaborators.
- Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.
Human Capacity Building
The Senior Researcher is responsible for coordination and supports the management of Human Capacity Development that includes support of
- Project staff and students.
- Self.
Job Requirements
- PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Biotechnology or related discipline.
- At least five (5) years post PhD experience in plant breeding.
- Authored or co-authors a minimum of 12 peer review publications relevant to the position.
- Experience in molecular breeding of vegetable crops (seed, fruit or leafy vegetables) will be an added advantage.
- Experience in generating external income for research projects.
- Proven record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising students and other research staff.
- Proven record for initiation, planning and execution of research projects, personnel management and financial management of projects.
- 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.
- Valid driver’s license.
Enquiries: Dr Mariette Truter, Tel: (012) 808 8281
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 29 APRIL 2026
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.
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.
SCIENTIFIC APPLICATION SPECIALIST: GENOMICS
Onderstepoort
Job Reference Number: ARC - BTP11/67
Department: 11 - BTECH
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC- Biotechnology Platform (ARC– BTP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Onderstepoort, Pretoria:
Job Description
The position entails next generation sequencing (NGS), long read sequencing, genotyping and high-throughput DNA extraction services.
- Conduct genomics services as part of the Biotechnology Platform Core team.
- Receive, track and quality control of samples, library preparation, NGS sequencing and data delivery to clients.
- Receive, track and quality control of samples, genotyping (Affymetrix and/or Illumina) and data delivery to clients.
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment and their servicing records.
- Develop and implement a program to optimise workflows with focus on quality, efficiency and cost.
- Develop and implement the use of Standard Operating Procedures.
- Conduct training of genomics technologies to students and external clients.
- Coordinate client workflows to ensure short turnaround times, efficient data dissemination and client invoicing.
- Generate and manage client quotations, purchase orders, invoices and certificates of conformance and ensure they are properly catalogued for monthly and quarterly reporting.
- Monthly inventory and purchasing of consumables and reagents according to procurement procedures.
Job Requirements
- An MSc in genomics, genetics, molecular biology or related field.
- At least 1 - 2 years’ hands-on experience with genomics technologies, especially next generation sequencing or genotyping, is a requirement.
- Experience operating and programming automated liquid handlers and/or performing long read sequencing, will be highly advantageous.
- Demonstration of skills in project management will be advantageous.
- Ability to interact with clients in a collaborative and consultative role and working as part of a team will be an advantage.
- Knowledge and experience in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) will be an advantage.
Enquiries: Dr Khanyi Hadebe, Tel: 012 529 9121
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 29 APRIL 2026
A 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).
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 a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.
A 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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Roodeplaat Biosystematics
Job Reference Number: PHP0655
Department: 06 - PPRI
Business Unit:
Industry: Office Support
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria. Roodeplaat
Job Description
- Handling of petty cash, advances and claims on pre-agreed deadlines. Travelling to bank for petty cash pick-up
- Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of Biosystematics office.
- Answers phone calls, schedules meetings and supports visitors.
- Carries out administrative duties such as filing, typing, copying, binding, scanning etc.
- Completes operational requirements by scheduling and assigning administrative projects and expediting work results.
- Makes travel arrangements for senior staff such as booking flights, cars, and hotel.
- Exhibits polite and professional communication via phone, e-mail, and mail.
- Supports team by performing tasks related to organization and strong communication.
- Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements, calling for repairs, maintaining equipment inventories and evaluating new equipment and techniques.
- Liaise with ICT regarding printer cartridges and repairs
- Provides information by answering questions and requests.
- Maintains stationery
- and supplier inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level, anticipating needed supplies, placing and expediting orders for staff.
- Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.
- Assist PRO with ad hoc tasks and events
Job Requirements
- Grade 12
- 2years Prior experience as an administrator, front desk, receptionist or in a related
- Customer service
- Basic computer literacy
- Ability to organise, prioritise and work systematically
- Good communication skills (verbal & written)
- Valid drivers’ licence
Enquiries: Ms. Hendrieta Manenzhe, Tel: 012 808 8000
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 28 APRIL 2026
A 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).
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 a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.
A 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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organization reserves the right not to appoint.
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR (THREE (3) YEARS FIXED TERM CONTRACT)
Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: PHP0654
Department: 06 - PPRI
Business Unit:
Industry: Office Support
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria.
Job Description
- Administrative tasks include, loading RFQs and PO requests, obtaining quotations from service providers, budget revisions, loading new project budgets, travel and accommodation requests for staff.
- Effectively manage, direct, record and assess the flow of documents and submissions.
- Manage and upload documents to the signing-hub.
- Ensure various administrative tasks for the Division Meetings: arrangements, agendas, attendance registers, minutes, relevant documents, venues, and refreshments when needed.
- Stationery: manage orders, monthly stock count on SAGE.
- Petty Cash: withdrawals, approvals for purchases, summaries, budget sheets, requisitions, slips, control and purchases.
- Use own initiative in terms of activities and tasks that can be performed in and around control, purchases.
- Liaise with suppliers, contractors, stakeholders and project co-workers
- Protect and support ARC IP and ITC policies.
- Assists with arrangements, purchases, and preparations of social events.
Job Requirements
- National Diploma in Accounting or related field.
- Five years’ experience in supply chain processes and ability to manage multiple projects.
- Knowledge of SAGE X3 will be an added advantage.
- Ability to organise, prioritise and work systematically.
- Good communication skills (verbal & written).
- Experience in networking and coordination of projects will be an advantage.
- Proficiency in MS Office suite
- Code B/EB driver’s license required.
Enquiries: Dr. David Simelane, Tel: 012 808 8217
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 29 APRIL 2026
A 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).
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 a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.
A 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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organization reserves the right not to appoint.
SENIOR MANAGER RESEARCH: TROPICAL & SUBTROPICAL CROPS: (FIVE (5) YEARS FIXED TERM CONTRACT)
Nelspruit
Job Reference Number: ARC/TSC03/81
Department: 03 - ITSC
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
Job Description
- Resource Allocation: Managing budgetary and resource allocation to support the institution's mission and goals.
- Process Improvement: Identify and implement efficiencies to enhance service delivery and reduce costs.
- Strategic Planning: Collaborate with Executive Manager: Core, to develop and execute strategic plans that align with the institution's mission and vision.
- Lead and Direct: Lead and Direct the Institute’s Research Management Agenda.
- Shared Services Management: Collaborate with the Executive Management Shared Services/ Corporate Support, in overseeing the shared services functions within the institution, ensuring they operate cohesively and meet their respective objectives.
- Policy Implementation: Ensure that policies, procedures, and regulations are effectively communicated and adhered to throughout the Institute.
- Performance Evaluation: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess the institution's performance and make data-driven decisions.
- Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating operational risks and challenges that could impact the institution's mission or reputation.
- Stakeholder Relations: Building and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Innovation and Technology: Promoting the adoption of innovative technologies and practices to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
- Emergency Response and Continuity Planning: Implement plans for emergency response, business continuity, and disaster recovery.
- Compliance and Legal Affairs: Ensuring that the institution complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
- Human Resources Management: Collaborating with Human Capital Business Partner, oversee personnel, including hiring, training, and performance management, to maintain a skilled and motivated workforce.
- Financial Management: Collaborating with Finance Business Partner, oversee campus’s finances and financial health, budget and cost management and financial reporting.
- Communication and Reporting: Providing regular updates to Executive leadership, governing boards, and other stakeholders on operational performance and progress toward goals.
- Conflict Resolution: Handling internal conflicts and disputes within the Institute in a fair and constructive manner.
- Crisis Management: Leading the institution's response to crises or emergencies, coordinating efforts to mitigate negative impacts.
- Ethical Leadership: Upholding and promoting ethical standards and values within the organization, setting a positive example for all employees.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with Stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns and ensuring the institution's services are responsive to those needs.
Job Requirements
- Doctoral Degree (PhD or DSc) with post-doctoral research experience in Plant Science, Crop Science, or a closely related field.
- A minimum of ten (10) years’ relevant experience post PhD in research and development within the crops science sector.
- A minimum of twenty-five (25) peer-reviewed scientific publications.
- Experience in tropical and subtropical crops will be an added advantage.
- At least ten (10) years’ experience at middle management level, five (5) years relevant experience in research and development in the Crop Sciences environment.
- Proven capability in project and programme management, partnership development, and collaborative research.
- Excellent organizational, planning, monitoring, and control skills, with strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Sound performance and financial management skills, with demonstrated leadership and negotiation ability.
- Proven experience in personnel, financial and facilities management.
- Valid driver's license.
Enquiries: Dr Yolisa Pakela-Jezile, Tel: (012) 427 9700
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 28 APRIL 2026
A 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 as well as competency and leadership assessments. 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 a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.
A 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 organisation reserves the right not to appoint.