Candidate Scientist: Plant Sciences (3 year contract position in Elsenburg), Ref No. AGR 60/2026

Job Purpose

Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to assist in research, assessment, evaluation, innovation, and provide advice and support for the development of the agri-processing sector.

Tracking Number

Enquiries

Remuneration

All inclusive salary package of R 687 036 per annum (OSD as prescribed)

Note on remuneration: Cost-to-employer (CTE) remuneration packages for certain occupation-specific dispensations (OSD) are inclusive of all costs related to service benefits or obligations including basic salary, medical assistance, housing assistance, pension-fund contributions, etc. Where remuneration is not indicated as CTE, employees' service benefits or obligations are funded or co-funded in terms of the applicable prescripts or collective agreements.

Notes

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews on a date and time determined by the department and will be required to submit duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within the timeframe communicated by the WCG and prior to the interview date. Failure to provide the required duly completed and signed vetting and supporting documentation within the prescribed timeframe, without reasonable justification, may result in the shortlisted candidate not being considered further in the current recruitment and selection process.

All shortlisted candidates shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department.

By applying for this position, you are consenting to the Western Cape Government contacting your previous employers/managers for an employment reference. Reference checks will include enquiries relating to your disciplinary records and reasons for leaving.

Should you experience difficulties with your online application, technical support is available from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 16.00. Contact the helpline at 086 137 0214. For all other queries relating to the position, kindly contact the enquiries person as indicated in the advert. Please ensure that you submit your application before the closing date as no late applications will be considered.

Assist in the implementation of methodologies, policies, systems amd procedures; To assist in the facilitation of compliance; Provide advice to internal & external clients/stakeholders on agri-processing for decision-making, initiatives and/or interventions within a specific environment; Provide capacity building. 

National Diploma in Science or relevant qualification; Registration with SACNAPS as a Certificated Natural Scientist in training is compulsory upon appointment. 

Working knowledge of the following: Scientific methodologies; Research and development; Computer-aided scientific applications; Legal compliance
Skills in the following: Technical: Driving; Computer Literacy; Scientific methodologies; Research and development; Report writing; Professional judgment. Generic: Analytical skills; Creativity; Self-management; Customer focus and responsiveness; Communication; Networking; Computer literacy; Planning and organising; Conflict management; Problem solving and analysis.