Agriculture Scientist Production 2 Vacancy 2026 at National Department of Agriculture

Opportunity Overview

Agriculture is seeking dedicated individuals for two Scientist Production 2 positions within its Genetic Resources (Variety Control) Directorate. These roles are based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

This opportunity involves contributing to the regulation and scientific evaluation of plant varieties. Successful candidates will perform critical scientific analysis, develop procedures, and provide essential technical support related to plant breeding and improvement.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A Grade 12 certificate.
• A BSc (Honours) or M Tech degree with Botany, Agronomy, Horticulture, Genetics, and/or Plant Biotechnology as a major subject.
• Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNSP) as a Professional Natural Scientist.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ post-qualification experience in the field of botany, plant taxonomy, plant breeding, or the administration of legislation related to Agriculture.
• Knowledge of the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act, Plant Improvement Act, UPOV Convention, Plant Morphology and Physiology, and Statistics.
• Proficiency in computer skills (MS Office).
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to manage conflict effectively.
• Good planning and organization skills.
• Knowledge and practical experience in the operation of laboratory apparatus.
• Strong numeracy, mathematical, and statistical skills.
• Experience in research, plant variety evaluations, and analytical tasks.
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently.
• A valid driver’s license.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidates will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Developing and implementing relevant systems and procedures.
• Verifying applications and technical questionnaires in terms of the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act and the Plant Improvement Act.
• Establishing trials in collaboration with the directorate’s farm manager, applicant, or their appointed agent.
• Identifying locations of candidate and comparative varieties, and liaising with the farm manager on field identification.
• Engaging with clients on matters related to their applications and conducting site visits.
• Performing technical scientific analysis.
• Collecting data on candidate and standard varieties according to prescribed guidelines.
• Observing and evaluating candidates based on the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) or National Test guidelines.
• Conducting variety characterization and documentation.
• Performing data analysis on candidate and standard varieties.
• Compiling variety descriptions and Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) reports for candidate varieties.
• Confirming that candidate varieties comply with prescribed DUS requirements in terms of relevant legislation.
• Processing data.
• Providing technical support and advice to Registrars and Plant Improvement organisations.
• Providing technical support and advice to applicants regarding submitted Technical Questionnaires.
• Contributing to research and development initiatives.
• Drafting and/or providing input to UPOV and/or national test guidelines.
• Reviewing and studying scientific publications, including internet searches, relevant to Plant Breeders' Rights and Variety Listing applications.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email their application to:

SPrecruit41@nda.gov.za

Please ensure your application includes the reference number: 3/3/1/74/2026.

The deadline for applications is September 4, 2026.