Professional Scientist Grade A/B/C (Horticulture)
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About the role
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KwaZulu-Natal) is hiring a Professional Scientist Grade A/B/C (Horticulture), based in Makhathini Research Station. This is a permanent post, paying R791,604 a year. How to apply: Applicants are encouraged to apply for posts through the online e-Recruitment system at www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs. Applications submitted electronically will be taken as a final application and may not be amended or supplemented in any way after the closing date indicated in the advertisement. All applications must be addressed to the Head of Department and for reference numbers starting with SSC may be hand delivered or couriered to 4 Pin Oak Avenue, Hilton, 3245. All applications for reference numbers starting with NSC may be hand delivered or couriered to Lot no. 11634, Corner of Via Verbena and Loop Street, Veldenvlei, Richards Bay, 3900. Emailed applications will not be accepted. Reference number to quote: NSC09/2026 Closing date: 30 October 2026 Use the new Z83 form and attach a detailed CV.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems and procedures with particular reference to horticultural research.
- Perform agricultural scientific analysis and regulatory functions.
- Conduct research and development.
- Human Capital development.
- Perform administrative functions.
Requirements
- An NQF level 08 four-year B.Sc in Agriculture degree majoring in Horticulture, compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist and a valid driver’s licence.
- Experience: 3 years’ relevant post qualification experience.
- Knowledge:
- Sound understanding of agricultural research methodologies and application of practices and techniques in horticulture
- Labour Relations Act
- Public Service Act
- Public Administration Management Act
- Public Service Regulations
- Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act
- Departmental HRM and HRD Policies
- Skills:
- Technical: Analytical skills and data analysis
- Scientific methodology and models
- Research and development
- Writing of scientific papers
- Technical reports and popular articles
- Scientific editing and reviewing
- Communication at a scientific
- Technical and informative level
- Programme and project management
- Presentation and computer aided scientific applications
- Generic:
- Leadership
- Mentorship
- Conflict management
- Financial management
- Planning and organizing
- Problem solving and analysis
- Creativity
- Decision making
- Change management
- Customer focus and responsiveness
- Communication
- Innovation
- Computer literacy
- Networking
- Creating high-performance culture
- Self-disciplined and self-driven with the ability to work under pressure with minimum supervision