SCIENTIFIC MANAGER: INFORMATION AND ANALYTICAL SERVICES (ELSENBURG)

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced natural scientist to lead information and analytical services within the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, based at Elsenburg. As a Scientific Manager, the successful candidate will operate at a strategic level, providing scientific leadership and management oversight to ensure that the department’s agricultural research, data management, and policy development efforts are aligned with provincial and national objectives. The role sits within a professional scientific environment and is graded according to the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD), reflecting its senior technical and managerial nature. The incumbent will be expected to bridge the gap between complex scientific data and practical agricultural policy, ensuring that evidence-based decision-making is embedded across the department’s programmes.

To be considered for this role, applicants must hold an appropriate MSc degree in Meteorology, Environmental Science, or Geoscience, and must be registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Professional Natural Scientist in the relevant field of practice. A minimum of six years of post-qualification experience in the natural sciences is required, along with a valid code B driving licence. The ideal candidate will bring a strong working knowledge of applicable policies, legislation, guidelines, standards, and best practices, as well as a thorough understanding of the Public Service Regulatory Framework, the Public Financial Management Act and its regulations, and sound project and people management principles. Excellent communication, interpersonal, analytical, planning, organisational, motivational, policy formulation, presentation, facilitation, financial management, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this demanding but rewarding position.

The core duties of the role are multifaceted. The Scientific Manager will be responsible for facilitating and coordinating policy, strategy development, and implementation within the information and analytical services environment. This includes overseeing agricultural research and data management functions, ensuring that research outputs are scientifically sound, relevant, and effectively translated into actionable information. The role also carries significant people management responsibilities, requiring the ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team of scientific and technical professionals. In addition, the incumbent will be accountable for financial management, including budgeting, expenditure control, and ensuring compliance with relevant financial regulations and procedures.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process is thorough. It will include interviews, the submission of duly completed vetting and supporting documentation, and two pre-entry assessments: one practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and another assessing integrity and ethical conduct. Reference checks will be conducted with previous employers and may include enquiries about disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. The department’s employment equity targets will guide the selection process, and all applicants should be prepared for a rigorous, transparent recruitment procedure. This is a senior scientific leadership role that offers the chance to shape agricultural research and information services in the Western Cape, making it ideal for a dedicated professional seeking to make a meaningful impact in the public sector.