PROFESSIONAL SCIENTIST GRADE A/B/C: – AGROMETEOROLOGIST – AGRICULTURAL RISK AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

This position offers an opportunity for a qualified agrometeorologist to contribute to agricultural risk and disaster management within a provincial government department, based at the Cedara Research Station. The role is structured as a Professional Scientist post at Grade A, B, or C, and is part of the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) remuneration framework. The incumbent will work within the agricultural risk and disaster management unit, applying scientific expertise to help the agricultural sector anticipate, prepare for, and respond to a wide range of climate-related and biological hazards. These include drought, floods, veld fires, severe weather events, pests, and diseases, all of which have the potential to disrupt agricultural production and rural livelihoods.

To be considered, applicants must hold an NQF level 08 qualification in Agricultural Science, or a BSc Honours degree in Agricultural Science with a specialisation in Agrometeorology. Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Professional Natural Scientist is required, along with a valid driver’s licence. Candidates need at least three years of post-qualification experience specifically in agriculture risk reduction and disaster management. A strong working knowledge is expected of disaster risk reduction principles, agricultural risk and vulnerability assessment, exposure analysis, and disaster impact assessment. Familiarity with climate variability and change, early warning systems, seasonal monitoring, agricultural advisory services, and preparedness planning is also essential. In addition, the role demands competence in agricultural research methodology, data collection and analysis, interpretation, GIS mapping, and technical reporting. A thorough understanding of relevant legislation and policies is required, including the Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, the Public Finance Management Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and departmental policies governing natural resource management and public administration.

The core duties involve developing and implementing methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures related to agricultural risk and disaster management. The scientist will perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions, conduct research and development, and contribute to human capital development. Administrative and professional duties will also form part of the role, requiring strong technical skills in disaster risk assessment, climate and hazard analysis, early warning interpretation, GIS and computer-aided mapping, applied research, and scientific presentation. Generic competencies such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, stakeholder engagement, planning and organising, professional judgement, teamwork, and ethical accountability are equally important.

This is a demanding scientific post that requires both technical depth and the ability to communicate findings to diverse stakeholders. Shortlisted candidates should be prepared for pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. The position is based at Cedara Research Station, and interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the official provincial recruitment channels before the closing date.