ARC Vacancies

To apply, click on the link at the end of the posts and all the best with your applications.

RE-ADVERTISEMENT SENIOR RESEARCHER BACTERIOLOGY (PLANT PATHOLOGY )

Job Reference Number: PHP0629
Department: 06 – PPRI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Project management coordination: Initiates manage and participates in national and international research projects on plant bacteriology.
• Accountable for project budgets:Exercise quality control over project progress and outputs.
• Service delivery and facilities: Identifies the need for human resources, equipment and consumables and manages them accordingly.
• Research – actively sources new research opportunities: Providing research direction in the division including cross-cutting team proposal writing, adoption of new technologies, establishing collaborative partnerships, leveraging scientific, networks, actively sourcing alternative income stream generation activities.
• Plans and co-ordinates plant bacteriology research:With single or multi-disciplinary teams, conducts and participates in research projects, manages data collection and analysis, interpretations and recommendations for implementation.
• Compiles detailed reports:Publishes popular, semi-scientific and peer reviewed reports articles with high impact and actively seek networking opportunities.
• Technology transfer:Disseminates research results, initiates, builds and maintain relationships with national and international stakeholders and strategic partners to secure funds.
• Scientific status requirements:Member of scientific society, perform research with impact in order to establish status as a plant bacteriology expert.
• Human Resources: Manage and supervise research teams and technicians, co-supervise students, take responsibility for own performance career and development.

Job Requirements

• PhD in Plant Bacteriology or Plant Pathology.
• Five years’ post-PhD experience in plant bacteriology, diagnostics and applied plant pathology.
• Experience in project management and multi-disciplinary collaborations covering a wide variety of crops.
• Track-record of successful funding applications.
• Experience in staff management and student supervision.
• Proven record of publications in high impact journals.
• Well-established scientific status.
• Proven record of international collaboration.
• A valid driver’s license.

Enquiries: Dr Bongani Kubheka Tel: (012) 808 -8279 

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 11 JUNE 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. 

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form. 

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

DALRRD HCM ADMIN ASSISTANT – 12 MONTHS FIXED TERM CONTRACT

Job Reference Number: ARC-477
Department: 09 – RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Government
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC- Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC– VIMP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria:

Job Description

• Provide general administrative assistance to the HCM team, including scheduling meetings, preparing agendas and taking minutes.
• Provide logistical Admin support in all recruitment and selection activities.
• Help with organizing HR-related events, training sessions, and workshops.
• Organize and maintain employee records, both digital and physical, ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
• Assist with scheduling interview schedules and communicate with candidates.
• Support the onboarding process by preparing documentation and ensuring new hires have access to relevant systems
• Ensure all employee files are complete and up to date with necessary documentation.
• Track key deadlines, such as contract renewals and probationary reviews.
• Update and maintain the HCM system/ Registry with accurate employee data.
• Support data entry and ensure timely processing of HR transactions, documents and submissions such as loading document on Signing Hub for approval.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
• Matric Certificate with an NQF Level 5 Certificate in HRM or related.
• 1–2 years of experience in an HR or administrative support role, preferably within an HCM environment.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Communication skills, including written and verbal.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• High attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Basic knowledge of labor laws and HR best practices

Enquiries: Ms. Ronewa Makungo – HCM Administrator: (012) 808-8009

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 June 2025 

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organization reserves the right not to appoint.

RESEARCHER: BIOCHEMISTRY

Job Reference Number: AP45
Department: 02 – API
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position(s) at Animal Production (ARC-AP), Irene, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Project Management & Coordination
• The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research Projects across the Institute; these include conducting the following aspects of the projects;

• Research planning and Initiation
• Equipment and Research Materials
• Project Human Resources
• Project Finances
• Risk Management and Mitigation
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out

• Research, Development, and Innovation
• The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research, development and supporting innovation, these include supporting the following Research aspects;

• Invention
• Translation
• Commercialisation
• Adoption and Use

• Research Collaboration
• The Researcher is responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include

• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships

• Human Capacity Building
• The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of

• Project staff and students
• Self

Job Requirements

• Ph.D. with specialisation in Biochemistry.
• At least 3 years’ relevant experience in biochemical techniques (Mass spectrometry, Chromatography, Electrophoresis, Protein purification, Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Enzymology.
• Minimum 3-5 peer reviewed publications.
• Technology Transfer: Participate in advisory services under supervision.
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be an added advantage.
• Proven record of accomplishment for generating external income for projects in line with requirements on Master’s and PhD level. In this respect proven record of writing of proposals as part of Masters and PhD studies.
• Proven record of participating as speaker nationally as part of Masters and PhD level. Must be able to show competence in presenting research results.
• Proven record for financial management of projects.
• Proven track record of mentoring and supervising/co-supervising other researchers and students.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• A valid South African Code B (08/10) drivers’ license.

Enquiries: Dr, Kgantjie Moloto: Tel: (012) 672 9352  

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 05 JUNE 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance ( as well as competency and leadership assessments ). 

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

HONOURS DEGREE STUDENT BURSARY: AGROMETEOROLOGY X3 POSITIONS (1 YEAR FIXED TERM CONTRACT)

Job Reference Number: ARC-NRE30
Department: 07 – ISCW
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 3
Salary: Market Related

The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position(s) at Central Office (ARC-CO), Hatfield, Pretoria :

Job Description

• Conduct research on climate variability/change, crop production and agrifood systems.
• Provide research support to Agrometeorology research project as the affiliated postgraduate student.
• Engage with relevant stakeholders within the affiliated research project.
• Disseminate project results through peer-reviewed journals, newsletters, conference proceedings and other media, and presentations at conferences.
• Collect, process and interpret data, and make internal project recommendations.

Job Requirements

• BSc Agric or BSc in Agrometeorology, Agronomy, Climate Science, Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, or similar agricultural fields.
• Applicants should be highly motivated graduates with a strong academic background.
• Programming experience (or willingness to learn) using Python, R or a similar language is essential.
• Willingness to learn crop modelling, SPSS and other statistical packages.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Must be willing to travel to farming communities and remote areas for intermediate periods.
• A valid driver’s licence (code 08/EB) would be an added advantage.

Enquiries: Dr G Zuma-Netshiukhwi  Tel: (012) 310-2595

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 JUNE 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).  
Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form. 
A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

RESEARCH TECHNICIAN: PLANT VIROLOGY (FOUR (4) YEARS FIXED-TERM CONTRACT)

Job Reference Number: ARC-PHP0632
Department: 06 – PPRI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC– PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Conducting maize transformation experiments and gene editing for virus resistance.
• Design, assembly and testing of CRISPR/Cas9 vectors.
• Molecular analysis of mutant plants using PCR, Sanger and high-throughput sequencing.
• Conducting protein -protein interaction assays for charactering plants -virus interactions.
• Inoculation of plants with viruses for resistance screening.
• Planting and maintenance of plants in the glasshouse and growth rooms.
• Providing essential logistical and administrative support to research teams and scientists.

Job Requirements

• BSc Honours in Plant Biotechnology or related field.
• Experience in cloning, tissue culture and general molecular biology is mandatory.
• Experience in gene editing and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation is desirable.
• Good communication skills.
• Computer skills recommended for record keeping.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and work systematically.
• Driver’s license 08/EB driver.

Enquiries: Dr Tendekai Mahlanza :Tel ( 012) 808- 8195 

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:04 June 2025.

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance as well as competency and leadership assessments. 

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

ARTISAN BOILERMAKER

Job Reference Number: ARC-OVR10/48
Department: 10 – OVI
Business Unit:
Industry: Civil/Building
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Onderstepoort, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Mechanical maintenance of plant machinery.
• Manufacturing of parts as per drawings or samples.
• Mechanical repairs and minor welding on pipes.
• Design, plan and build all boiler making requirements within the institute.

Job Requirements

• N6 Mechanical Certificate with Boilermaker Trade Test Certificate.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a wide range of artisan work.
• Drivers’ License will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer skills.

Enquiries: Mr Joseph Khoza: Tel: (012) 529 9529

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 04 JUNE 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

SENIOR RESEARCHER: POTATO BREEDING

Job Reference Number: ARC-VIMP0966
Department: 09 – RVOPI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC– VIMP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat (Pretoria):

Job Description

• Initiates and manages research projects on genomics Conducts specific research with clear focus on root and tuber crops (potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, etc.), while developing
  systems for other crops as well.
• Actively sources and secures new research opportunities and funding related to genomics.
• Captures, analyses and interprets data.
• Provides leadership, supervision and mentoring of postgraduate students, researchers, research technicians and assistants.
• Human resources management to ensure efficient deployment and utilization, setting objective assessment and training.
• Disseminates technology through peer-reviewed scientific articles, popular publications, manual production, radio and TV talks, etc.
• Initiates and collaborates with national and international organizations.
• Trains postgraduate students and technical personnel in the use of specialized analytical instruments and associated software.
• Compliance with human resource policies and procedures.
• Compliance with occupational health and safety policies and procedures.

Job Requirements

• PhD/DSc in Plant Breeding, Plant Genetics or related field.
• Minimum 5 years relevant experience and 8 relevant peer reviewed publications.
• Experience in potatoes breeding and seed pipeline development are differentiating advantages.
• Demonstrable experience in designing and execution of breeding and genetics research.
• Evidence of substantial publications in ISI-rated scientific journals.
• Evidence of popular article publications will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrable experience in project management
• Postgraduate student mentoring or supervision experience applicable.
• Registration with a relevant scientific registration body, where applicable.
• Management skills including research project management.
• Good communication (verbal & writing) skills.
• Agricultural Research knowledge and skills.
• Extensive knowledge of medicinal plant production systems.
• Advanced computer literacy.
• Ability to render diagnostic, technical and other services at national level.
• Knowledge of intellectual property opportunities.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures.
• Valid driver’s license.

Enquiries: DR SUNETTE LAURIE: (012) 808-8009

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 MAY 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organization reserves the right not to appoint.

QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER

Job Reference Number: ARC-OVR10/47
Department: 10 – OVI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic person to the following position at Onderstepoort, Pretoria.

Job Description

• Documenting quality standards and procedures to ensure consistency and adherence to regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and customer expectations.
• Assist with the performance routine quality inspections and audits to assess compliance/conformance and identify areas for improvement.
• Identify and list quality standard breaches.
• Keep accurate records and documentation related to quality processes and practices.
• Participate in quality committees or teams to promote employee involvement.
• Promote a culture of quality management through regular communication and awareness campaigns.
• Identify opportunities to ensure enhance adherence and suggest corrective actions.
• Involved in quality training programs for employees, including new hires and ongoing refresher training.
• Maintenance of the accreditation status of the laboratory through good laboratory practices in line with South African National Accreditation Systems (SANAS) and the ISO/IEC 17025
• Uphold the quality management systems to ensure that management and technical requirements are met and to constantly seek to improve the system.
• Be the liaison contact person between the laboratory and SANAS in the absence of a Nominated Representative.

Job Requirements

• National Diploma or B-Tech in Biological Science or related discipline.
• At least 3 years’ experience in Quality Management Systems.
• Knowledge and experience in ISO Standard 17025.
• Knowledge of SANAS documentation and requirements.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Experience in auditing techniques, management of documents and records.
• A valid SA driver’s license.

Enquiries: Dr Alison Lubisi, Tel: (012) 529 -9233

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 29 MAY 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

RESEARCHER (CROP PROTECTION-PLANT PATHOLOGY)

Job Reference Number: ARC-GC05-50
Department: 05 – GCI
Business Unit:
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related

The ARC-Grain Crops (ARC– GC) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following positions at Potchefstroom.

Job Description

Project Management & Coordination

The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research Projects across Plant Pathology scope of studies.

These involve the following aspects of the projects:

• Research planning and Initiation.
• Equipment and Research Materials.
• Project Human Resources.
• Project Finances.
• Risk Management and Mitigation.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.

 Research, Development, and Innovation

The Researcher is responsible for conducting Research, development and supporting innovation, These include supporting the following Research aspects:

• Invention.
• Translation.
• Commercialisation.
• Adoption and Use.

 Research Collaboration

The Researcher is responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities; these include:

• Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
• Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.

 Human Capacity Building

The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of:

• Project staff and students
• Self.

Job Requirements

• PhD or Masters Degree (Plant Pathology) with 3 to 5 peer reviewed publications.
• Biotechnology background will be an advantage
• Registration with a scientific and professional body will be added advantage.
• Proven track record for generating external income for research projects.
• Experience in mentoring students.
• Valid EB driver’s license.

Enquiries: Dr B Janse van Rensburg, Tel: 018 299 6357

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 28 MAY 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes to Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license must be attached.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint. 

Click here to apply

We wish you all the best with your applications