AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC) VACANCIES

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SENIOR RESEARCHER: POTATO BREEDING
Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP0966
Department: 09 - RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC– VIMP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat (Pretoria):
 
Job Description

• Initiates and manages research projects on genomics Conducts specific research with clear focus on root and tuber crops (potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, etc.), while developing
  systems for other crops as well.
• Actively sources and secures new research opportunities and funding related to genomics.
• Captures, analyses and interprets data.
• Provides leadership, supervision and mentoring of postgraduate students, researchers, research technicians and assistants.
• Human resources management to ensure efficient deployment and utilization, setting objective assessment and training.
• Disseminates technology through peer-reviewed scientific articles, popular publications, manual production, radio and TV talks, etc.
• Initiates and collaborates with national and international organizations.
• Trains postgraduate students and technical personnel in the use of specialized analytical instruments and associated software.
• Compliance with human resource policies and procedures.
• Compliance with occupational health and safety policies and procedures.

Job Requirements

• PhD/DSc in Plant Breeding, Plant Genetics or related field.
• Minimum 5 years relevant experience and 8 relevant peer reviewed publications.
• Experience in potatoes breeding and seed pipeline development are differentiating advantages.
• Demonstrable experience in designing and execution of breeding and genetics research.
• Evidence of substantial publications in ISI-rated scientific journals.
• Evidence of popular article publications will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrable experience in project management
• Postgraduate student mentoring or supervision experience applicable.
• Registration with a relevant scientific registration body, where applicable.
• Management skills including research project management.
• Good communication (verbal & writing) skills.
• Agricultural Research knowledge and skills.
• Extensive knowledge of medicinal plant production systems.
• Advanced computer literacy.
• Ability to render diagnostic, technical and other services at national level.
• Knowledge of intellectual property opportunities.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures.
• Valid driver’s license.

 
Enquiries: DR SUNETTE LAURIE: (012) 808-8009
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 MAY 2025
 
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.
 
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QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER
Onderstepoort
Job Reference Number: ARC-OVR10/47
Department: 10 - OVI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
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

• Documenting quality standards and procedures to ensure consistency and adherence to regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and customer expectations.
• Assist with the performance routine quality inspections and audits to assess compliance/conformance and identify areas for improvement.
• Identify and list quality standard breaches.
• Keep accurate records and documentation related to quality processes and practices.
• Participate in quality committees or teams to promote employee involvement.
• Promote a culture of quality management through regular communication and awareness campaigns.
• Identify opportunities to ensure enhance adherence and suggest corrective actions.
• Involved in quality training programs for employees, including new hires and ongoing refresher training.
•  Maintenance of the accreditation status of the laboratory through good laboratory practices in line with South African National Accreditation Systems (SANAS) and the ISO/IEC 17025
• Uphold the quality management systems to ensure that management and technical requirements are met and to constantly seek to improve the system.
• Be the liaison contact person between the laboratory and SANAS in the absence of a Nominated Representative.

 
Job Requirements

• National Diploma or B-Tech in Biological Science or related discipline.
• At least 3 years’ experience in Quality Management Systems.
• Knowledge and experience in ISO Standard 17025.
• Knowledge of SANAS documentation and requirements.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Experience in auditing techniques, management of documents and records.
• A valid SA driver’s license.

 
Enquiries: Dr Alison Lubisi, Tel: (012) 529 -9233
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 29 MAY 2025
 
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 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 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.
 
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​RESEARCHER (CROP PROTECTION-PLANT PATHOLOGY)
Potchefstroom
Job Reference Number: ARC-GC05-50
Department: 05 - GCI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC-Grain Crops (ARC– GC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following positions at Potchefstroom.
 
Job Description
 
Project Management & Coordination
 
The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research Projects across Plant Pathology scope of studies.
These involve 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.
• Commercialisation.
• 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 Masters Degree (Plant Pathology) with 3 to 5 peer reviewed publications.
• Biotechnology background will be an advantage
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be added advantage.
• Proven track record for generating external income for research projects.
• Experience in mentoring students.
• Valid EB driver's license.

 
Enquiries: Dr B Janse van Rensburg, Tel: 018 299 6357
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 28 MAY 2025
 
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 and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes to Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license must be attached.
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. 
 
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​RE-ADVERT TRACTOR DRIVER
Roodeplaat
Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP0964
Department: 09 - RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Horticulture/Agriculture
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
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 i
 
Job Description

• Work on a tractor with various implements, including bush cutter, slasher, spraying machine,
• fertilizer spread, planter etc. at a correct speed;
• Ensure proper soil preparation is done accurately, timeously and in a professional manner;
• Safe transportation of workers, farm produce, fertilizers, and other farm equipment;
• Pruning, suckering, canopy management and harvesting of fruit trees / vineyards;
• Basic maintenance of the tractor, implements, irrigation & trellis systems;
• Reporting of any symptoms of defects and breakages on the tractor & implements;
• Time management with execution of individual & team tasks;
• Record keeping of day-to-day work done, diesel usage, spraying programs.
• Assist with general farm work.
• Comply with all requirements of the OHS Act.

 
Job Requirements

• Grade 10 plus 3 years’ experience as a tractor operator or Earth Heavy Moving Equipment.
• Grade 12 will be an added advantage.
• Tractor and Earth Heavy Moving Equipment operator certificate will be an added advantage.
• Good reading and writing skills.
• Valid Driver’s Licence.
• Willing to do a competency test during the interview process.

 
Enquiries: Mr. Mfuzi Makwakwa, Tel: (012) 808-8000. E-mail Adrees: makwakwam@arc.agric.za 
 
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 22 MAY 2025
 
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.
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.
 
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