STATE VETERINARIAN: VETERINARY PUBLIC HEALTH (ELSENBURG)

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is seeking a State Veterinarian specialising in Veterinary Public Health, based at Elsenburg. This senior professional role sits within the provincial veterinary services and is central to safeguarding both animal and public health across the Western Cape. The incumbent will operate at the interface of veterinary science, community engagement and regulatory enforcement, ensuring that animal health standards are maintained and that zoonotic and notifiable diseases are detected, monitored and controlled effectively.

To be considered, applicants must hold an NQF level 8 BVSc or BVMch degree recognised by the South African Veterinary Council, and must be registered with the SAVC. At least one year of post-qualification veterinary experience is required, along with a valid Code EB or higher driving licence. The role demands a range of competencies including computer literacy, financial management, statistical and research skills, analytical thinking, strong communication and the ability to interpret complex scientific and regulatory information.

The duties are broad and impactful. The State Veterinarian will provide animal health services, including clinical and regulatory support, and will design and deliver training and awareness programmes for communities, with a strong focus on veterinary extension services. A key responsibility is rendering a veterinary laboratory diagnostic and epidemiology service, which involves interpreting laboratory results and contributing to disease surveillance. The post also requires the delivery of a veterinary public health service, addressing risks to humans from animal diseases, and the implementation of animal disease surveillance systems to detect outbreaks early. In the event of disease outbreaks, the incumbent will implement contingency plans and conduct risk assessments to mitigate spread. Administrative duties and related functions are also part of the role, ensuring that records, reports and compliance requirements are met.

Shortlisted candidates should note that the selection process is thorough. They will be required to attend interviews at a time determined by the department and must submit completed vetting and supporting documentation within a specified timeframe. Two pre-entry assessments will be conducted: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability, and an integrity assessment focusing on ethical conduct. The department will also contact previous employers for reference checks, including disciplinary records and reasons for leaving. By applying, candidates consent to these checks. The selection process will be guided by the employment equity targets of the department, so suitably qualified candidates from designated groups are encouraged to apply. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified veterinarian with a passion for public health and community engagement to contribute meaningfully to animal and human health protection in the Western Cape.