Scientist Production Grade A: Agronomy

Reference Number: DARDLEA/2026/08/19

Department: Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA)

Job Type: Permanent

Directorate: Directorate: Plant Research and Technology Development Services

Chief Directorate: Research, Training and Capacity Building Services

Programme: Technology Research and Development Services

Salary Level: OSD

Remuneration: R 791 604.00 per annum (All-inclusive package)

Location: Nooitgedacht

Closing Date: Friday, September 11, 2026

Job Description

Crop
or plant research skills and knowledge of the field of Plant Science/ Crop
Production. Must have knowledge of relevant plant/crop production including
policies, scientific and regulatory systems and procedures.  Ability to identify gaps and develop
appropriate technologies or interventions for crop related development services
especially in agronomy. Must have Programme project management, research and
development, Communication and presentation skills.  Ability to formulate research proposals,
write scientific and technical reports. 
Strong attention to detail and accuracy, ability to work independently
and as part of the team, good interpersonal. 
Must be computer literate (MS Word, MS Excel and MS Power Point).  Must have a valid driver’s licence.

Requirements

A
Grade 12 and post graduate degree in crop or plant production (NQF Level 8) or
equivalent 4-year degree majoring in crop/plant science or production as
recognised by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). A MSc
Agriculture will be an added advantage. Compulsory registration with South
African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). At least four (4)
years’ experience in conducting agricultural plant/crop research.

Duties

To
conduct basic and applied research in agronomy to effectively support agronomy
in the province and contribute towards a knowledge economy. Facilitate the
development and implementation of research methodologies, policies, systems and
procedures in relation to agronomy. Identify gaps and develop and implement
appropriate interventions to support agronomy in the province.  Review research findings and ensure
specialist advice, information, training and guidance by working directly with
beneficiaries in collaboration with extension and advisory services and other
stakeholders such as universities and research institutes. Develop working
relations with client base. Compile scientific and technical reports for publication in
scientific journals as well as popular media.  Collaborate
with relevant bodies/ councils on science related matters.   Mentor, train and develop technicians and
others to promote skills and knowledge transfer and adherence to sound
scientific principles and code of practice, supervise scientific work and
processes.

More Information

Only shortlisted
candidates will be required to submit certified documents. Foreign
qualifications must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from the South
African Qualification Authority (SAQA). Emailed applications will not be
considered. All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two
pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a
candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements
and the other will be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. Shortlisted
candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a
date and time to be determine by the Department. The first two recommended
candidates for Deputy Directors posts will be subjected to competency
assessment. All shortlisted
candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise and
interview.  Following the technical
exercise and interview, a maximum of three (3) SMS candidates will undergo
psychometric assessments to assess cognitive capabilities, behavioral
preferences, emotional intelligence, and integrity.

Correspondence
will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. The successful candidate will
be expected to enter into an employment contract and a performance agreement
within 3 months of appointment. Failure to comply with the above instructions
will result in your application being disqualified. Should you not be contacted
within 3 months of the closing date of the advertisement, please consider your
application to be unsuccessful. The successful candidate will be appointed
subject to positive results of the security clearance process. The Department
is committed to providing equal opportunities and adheres to the affirmative
action policy in line with Employment Equity Act, the SMS Handbook and all
relevant legislation applicable in the Public Service.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. K.L. Mdlalose Tel
No: (017) 819 5377 or Ms. N Hlatshwayo (017) 819 5377