Agriculture Scientific Technician Grade A-C Vacancy 2026 | Stipend: R407,337 – R610,131 per annum

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Agriculture is inviting applications for a Scientific Technician role within its Inspection and Quarantine Services Chief Directorate. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to scientific functions and tasks that are crucial for agricultural regulation and development.

Successful candidates will be involved in applying scientific methodologies, participating in research, and providing technical support to advance the department's objectives. This role is based in Buffelspoort, North-West Province.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 Certificate.
• National Diploma in Biological Sciences or a relevant qualification.
• Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Certificated Natural Scientist.
• A minimum of 3 years post-qualification technical (Scientific) experience.
• Knowledge of programme and project management.
• Understanding of scientific methodologies.
• Knowledge of research and development.
• Proficiency in computer-aided scientific applications.
• Knowledge of legal compliance.
• Technical report writing skills.
• Experience in creating a high-performance culture.
• Strong professional judgment.
• Data analysis skills.
• Mentoring skills.
• Creativity.
• Self-management skills.
• Financial management abilities.
• Customer focus and responsiveness.
• Communication skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Networking abilities.
• People management skills.
• Planning and organising abilities.
• Conflict management skills.
• Change management skills.
• Problem-solving and analysis skills.
• Ability to work extended hours.
• Experience in handling hazardous chemicals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures.
• Perform technical scientific functions and tasks requiring interpretation within an established framework.
• Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures.
• Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions.
• Prepare for and participate in research activities, including data collection through field surveys.
• Maintain, calibrate, and operate scientific equipment.
• Provide technical support and advice, developing working relations with the client base.
• Promote public awareness of scientific activities and disseminate technical/scientific data and information.
• Perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions, including data preparation and routine interpretation.
• Manage databases and data, and analyse technical scientific data.
• Apply appropriate scientific and technical procedures/skills to generate information and knowledge.
• Formulate proposals and compile reports.
• Develop and customize operational procedures.
• Engage in continuous professional development and research/literature studies to improve expertise.
• Conceptualise and develop scientific equipment, and conduct equipment reviews.
• Publish and present technical reports and research findings.
• Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on technology-related matters.
• Mentor, train, and develop candidate research technicians and others to promote skills/knowledge transfer and adherence to sound scientific principles.
• Supervise technical support and processes, and manage staff performance and development.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email. Please send your application to the following address:

STGrecruit59@nda.gov.za

The deadline for applications is August 7, 2026.