ANIMAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN: ANIMAL HEALTH: (VARIOUS POSTS AVAILABLE IN MALMESBURY, BOLAND, SWELLENDAM AND BEAUFORT WEST)

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is advertising multiple vacancies for Animal Health Technicians, with posts available in Malmesbury, Boland, Swellendam and Beaufort West. These positions play a vital role in safeguarding animal health and supporting the agricultural sector across the province. Working under the direction of the State Veterinarian, the successful candidates will be responsible for planning and implementing disease control measures, providing essential support services, and engaging directly with animal owners through extension services. The role is field-oriented and requires a strong commitment to public service, animal welfare, and biosecurity.

To be considered, applicants must hold an appropriate National Diploma in Animal Health that is recognised by SAQA, along with a minimum of three years of relevant post-qualification experience. Registration with the South African Veterinary Council is mandatory, as is a valid Code EB driving licence. The nature of the work demands extensive fieldwork under varying environmental conditions, which means candidates must be physically mobile and comfortable handling animals. They will also be exposed to infectious diseases and biohazards, so a sound understanding of safety protocols and a resilient disposition are important. In addition, the role requires well-developed communication skills, both written and verbal, as well as strong investigation, report writing, analytical and interpretation abilities. These competencies are essential for effectively supporting disease control, collecting samples, and enforcing animal health legislation.

The core duties include planning and implementing disease control measures, rendering a support service to the State Veterinarian with regard to animal disease control, reproduction and production advancement, sample collection and law enforcement. The technician will also provide extension services on animal health to animal owners, which involves educating and advising farmers and communities on best practices. Administrative and related functions form part of the role, ensuring that records, reports and regulatory requirements are properly managed. This is a demanding but rewarding position that contributes directly to the health of livestock and the sustainability of the agricultural industry.

Shortlisted candidates should note that they will be required to attend interviews on a date and time determined by the department. They will also need to submit duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within a timeframe communicated by the Western Cape Government, prior to the interview date. Failure to provide these documents timeously, without reasonable justification, may result in the candidate being excluded from the process. All shortlisted candidates will undertake two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise to determine suitability based on the technical and generic requirements of the post, and an integrity assessment to evaluate ethical conduct. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the employing department. By applying, candidates consent to the Western Cape Government contacting previous employers or managers for employment references, including enquiries relating to disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. Applications are only accepted online, and technical support is available during business hours for those experiencing difficulties. It is important to submit applications before the closing date, as late submissions will not be considered.