PROFESSIONAL SCIENTIST GRADE A/B/C (HORTICULTURE)

This position is for a Professional Scientist at Grade A, B, or C specialising in horticulture, based at the Makhathini Research Station. The role sits within the provincial agricultural department and forms part of the broader public service scientific corps, with the post graded under the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) remuneration system. The incumbent will be expected to function as a senior scientific specialist, contributing to the strategic direction of horticultural research in the region and ensuring that scientific outputs align with departmental mandates and national agricultural priorities.

To be considered, applicants must hold an NQF level 08 four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture with a major in Horticulture. Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Professional Natural Scientist is required, as is a valid driver’s licence. Candidates need at least three years of relevant post-qualification experience. A thorough working knowledge is expected of agricultural research methodologies and their practical application in horticulture, alongside familiarity with key legislative and regulatory frameworks including the Labour Relations Act, Public Service Act, Public Administration Management Act, Public Service Regulations, the Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and departmental HRM and HRD policies.

The successful candidate will need a strong blend of technical and generic competencies. On the technical side, this includes analytical skills, data analysis, scientific methodology and modelling, research and development, writing scientific papers, technical reports and popular articles, scientific editing and reviewing, communication at scientific and technical levels, programme and project management, presentation skills, and proficiency in computer-aided scientific applications. Generic skills required include leadership, mentorship, conflict management, financial management, planning and organising, problem solving, creativity, decision making, change management, customer focus, communication, innovation, computer literacy, networking, and the ability to create a high-performance culture. The role demands someone who is self-disciplined and self-driven, capable of working under pressure with minimal supervision.

The core duties involve developing and implementing methodologies, policies, systems and procedures specifically related to horticultural research. The role also requires performing agricultural scientific analysis and regulatory functions, conducting research and development activities, contributing to human capital development, and undertaking administrative functions associated with a professional scientific post. This is a research-intensive position that expects tangible outputs in the form of publications, technical guidance, and improved horticultural practices.

There are several important conditions attached to this vacancy. It is an OSD-graded post with an all-inclusive remuneration package. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability for the post, and another assessing ethical conduct and integrity. Applicants are responsible for having any foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Manual applications must be submitted on the prescribed Z83 form, and shortlisted candidates will need to produce certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents before the interview. The department also notes that applicants who have not been contacted within three months of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. This is a demanding but rewarding opportunity for a qualified horticultural scientist seeking to make a meaningful contribution to public agricultural research.