Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute Senior Agricultural Scientist (Senior Lecturer) Vacancy 2026 at National Department of Agriculture

Opportunity Overview

The Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute, operating within the broader Public Service agriculture sector, is seeking a dedicated Senior Agricultural Scientist to join their team as a Senior Lecturer. This position offers an opportunity to contribute significantly to agricultural education and development in the Eastern Cape.

This role is centered in Middelburg and focuses on developing academic curricula, delivering lectures, providing student support, and engaging with industry stakeholders. It is ideal for an experienced agricultural professional passionate about higher education and advancing agricultural knowledge.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 Certificate.
• Bachelor of Science Degree (BSc) in Agriculture (Animal Science).
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the higher education environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of all relevant legislation and regulations governing the Public Service.
• Knowledge of Government policies and priorities in Agriculture.
• Knowledge and understanding of the White Paper on the transformation of the Public Service (Batho Pele).
• Strong knowledge of the subject area (Animal Science) with a broad subject background to contribute to teaching programmes.
• Computer skills.
• Good knowledge of the subject field.
• Supervisory and management skills.
• Formal training and presentation skills/facilitation skills.
• Willingness to work extended hours.
• Ability to work proactively and under pressure.
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively at all times.
• A valid driver’s licence.
• Willingness to travel.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and implementation of academic curricula for the subject field according to relevant quality standards.
• Determine training needs of clients and industrial role players through liaison.
• Identify gaps in the curriculum, review, and develop appropriate interventions such as course material and study guides.
• Compile and align curricula to meet academic and practical requirements.
• Participate in peer reviewing of study material and presentations.
• Prepare syllabus guides, lesson plans, and presentations for practical, theoretical, and/or short courses.
• Ensure assessment and moderation of assessments occur according to required standards (e.g., Higher Education Quality Committee standards).
• Develop and implement capacity-building plans.
• Prepare and present practical and theoretical lecturing material and study aids.
• Present lectures and tutorials, maintaining discipline during classes.
• Compile question papers and memorandums for assessments.
• Grade answer sheets, papers, and assignments, including statistical analysis of results.
• Invigilate during exams and tests as required.
• Support students through an advisory and consultative role.
• Moderate exams as required.
• Present short courses and vocational training to Higher Education and Training (HET), Further Education and Training (FET) students, and other stakeholders.
• Liaise with industry on various platforms regarding vocational training.

What the Work Involves

As a Senior Agricultural Scientist (Senior Lecturer) at the Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute, your work will be dynamic, blending academic leadership with direct teaching responsibilities. You will be instrumental in shaping the agricultural curriculum, identifying the evolving training needs of clients and industry professionals, and developing course materials to address these needs.

Day-to-day activities will involve preparing and delivering lectures and tutorials, guiding students through their learning, and assessing their progress through examinations and assignments. You will also engage with the broader agricultural sector, building relationships with industry partners and presenting specialized short courses. This role requires working in an educational institution environment, but also involves travel for industry liaison and training initiatives.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email. Please ensure your application includes the reference number.

Email Address: SASrecruit88@nda.gov.za

Reference Number: 3/3/1/88/2026

The deadline for applications is 16 October 2026.