FARM AID: BREEDING/REPRODUCTION/ANIMAL HOUSING AND WELFARE

This position offers an opportunity to work as a Farm Aid within the Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government, focusing specifically on breeding, reproduction, animal housing, and welfare. Based within a departmental agricultural environment, the role is a practical, hands-on support position that contributes to the daily functioning of a working farm. The incumbent will be part of a team responsible for maintaining both crop and livestock operations, ensuring that infrastructure is sound, animals are healthy, and general farm activities run smoothly. As an entry-level post, it is ideal for individuals who are comfortable with physical work, have a sound understanding of farm life, and are keen to support the department’s agricultural objectives.

To be considered, candidates must hold an ABET level 2 certificate or an equivalent qualification. More importantly, the role demands a solid working knowledge of farm infrastructure construction and maintenance, general farmwork, and the care of farm animals and pastures. Practical experience or familiarity with heavy draft horses is also required, as these animals are used in daily operations. Candidates should possess good verbal communication skills, basic numeracy and literacy, a valid driving licence, and the ability to operate farm equipment. The ability to work independently as well as part of a team is essential, as the work involves both solo tasks and collaborative efforts with other farm personnel.

The duties are varied and physically demanding. In respect of crop production, the Farm Aid will be responsible for irrigation of crops, soil cultivation, and preparation, including cleaning and hoeing. On the livestock side, duties include caring for sick animals, as well as carrying out dipping, vaccination, and dosing procedures. General farm activities involve cleaning facilities and disposing of farm waste material in an appropriate manner. Infrastructure work is a major component of the role: the incumbent must maintain and build roads, fences, pipelines, canals, dams, drinking troughs, animal housing, and buildings. Additionally, the position requires maintaining windmills and the water supply system, ensuring that water is available and infrastructure remains in good working order at all times.

Applicants should note that this post is subject to specific employment equity considerations. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the employing department, and applicants from relevant local communities will receive preference. This reflects the department’s commitment to fair representation and local community involvement. As with all applications, a completed Z83 form and a concise CV are required, and the relevant reference number must be clearly indicated. It is also important to note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within three months of the closing date; if no correspondence is received, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about agriculture, animal welfare, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports a productive farm environment.