SENIOR PROJECT OFFICER: LAND DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a qualified professional to contribute to agricultural development and land reform within the Mpumalanga provincial government. Based in the Nkangala District Office, the Senior Project Officer for Land Development Support operates within the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, playing a pivotal role in transforming land reform beneficiaries into commercially viable agricultural producers. The role is situated at a district level, meaning the incumbent will be closely involved with on-the-ground implementation, stakeholder engagement, and the day-to-day management of development projects that align with national and departmental priorities.

Candidates must possess a Grade 12 certificate and a Bachelor’s Degree at NQF Level 7 in Agricultural Economics, Agri Business, Agricultural Management, LLB, or a related equivalent qualification. At least two years of relevant experience in the land reform environment is required, alongside a valid driver’s licence. The ideal applicant will demonstrate strong knowledge of departmental land reform policies and prescripts, as well as a sound understanding of sector needs and business requirements. In-depth familiarity with policy development, monitoring and evaluation techniques, and broader government development frameworks such as the National Development Plan and the National Growth Path is essential. The role also demands research methodology expertise, good corporate governance principles, and knowledge of human and financial management. Core skills include project management, effective verbal and written communication, agricultural development acumen, conflict management, stakeholder mobilisation, financial management, computer literacy, information management, and analytical thinking. A willingness to travel extensively is a prerequisite.

The duties are comprehensive and centred on driving producer development towards commercialisation. The Senior Project Officer will implement projects, coordinate the identification of producers eligible for support, and help establish and manage partnerships between producers and development partners. The role involves organising capacity-building and training programmes, facilitating the appointment of strategic partners and service providers, and mobilising resources for identified farms in line with the department’s Annual Performance Plan and Operational Plan. Other key responsibilities include assisting with the development and approval of project registers, facilitating farm assessments and feasibility studies, compiling reports, and helping to develop business plans. The incumbent will also coordinate project approval processes, prepare submission documents, ensure alignment with standard operating procedures, and present proposals to relevant committees. Ongoing monitoring and reporting of projects under implementation is critical, as is promoting good corporate governance, compliance with financial and human resource prescripts, and adherence to internal and external controls. The role also involves assisting in mitigating operational and fraud risks.

This is a Level 08 position with an OSD-graded salary structure. The advertised post specifically targets equity objectives, with preference given to Coloured, Indian and White males and females, as well as persons with disabilities. The successful candidate will need to be prepared for travel within the district and potentially beyond. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a candidate passionate about land reform and rural development, offering the chance to make a tangible difference in the agricultural sector while working within a structured government environment.