DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (DOA)

CLOSING DATE : 13 February 2026 at 16:00

NOTE : To apply, submit a completed Z83 form and detailed Curriculum Vitae (PDF
document to a maximum of 10 megabytes) via e-mail or hand delivery. The
Department will not be held responsible for server delays. Late applications
due to technical issues will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates must
provide certified copies of required documents (Identity Document,
qualifications, etc) where necessary and service certificates to support senior
management experience to Human Resources before the interviews, including
South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation reports for foreign
qualifications. Failure to comply will result in disqualification. To be appointed
at Senior Management Service (SMS) level, you must complete the SMS Preentry programme offered by the National School of Government (NSG). Find
course details here: https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entryprogramme/ appointment is subject to successful competition of the Nyukela
Programme: Pre-entry Certificate to SMS and submission of proof. Shortlisted
applicants for the advertised vacancies will undergo two pre-entry
assessments: a practical assessment and an integrity assessment, both of
which form part of the selection criteria after the interview, the selection
committee will recommend candidates for a generic management competency
assessment, as per the Department of public Service and Administration
(DPSA) directives. The assessment will evaluate candidates’ managerial
competencies using standardised tools. NB: Please note that false or
fraudulent qualifications submitted by applicants will be reported to the South
African Police Services (SAPS), and a criminal case shall be opened.
Applications: Please submit your application before the closing date as late
applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If
applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to
high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. If
you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application
to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a
moratorium be placed on the filling of posts or the Department is affected by
any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts,
the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and readvertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal
opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative
action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The
Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying you consent to
the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment
purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for
assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the
Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks,
security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles).
Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other
allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security
clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance
agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to
declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships
of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to
disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination.
ERRATUM: The positions of Scientist Productions – Grade A (X2 Posts) with
Ref No: 3/3/1/30/2025 for the Directorate: Genetic Resources: Gauteng
(Pretoria): Head Office that was advertised in the Public Service Vacancy
Circular 01 dated 16 January 2026 has reference. The Centre was incorrectly
stated in the Public Service Vacancy Circular 01; the correct Centre is
Directorate: Genetic Resources: Western Cape (Stellenbosch Office). The
closing date for these positions is now extended to 06 February 2026 at 16:00.
The Department apologies for any inconvenience caused.

POST 03/05 : CHIEF AGRICULTURAL LEGISLATIVE INSPECTOR REF NO: 3/3/1/39/2025 (X2 POSTS)

Directorate: Agriculture Inputs Control
SALARY : R397 116 per annum
CENTRE : Northern Cape (Upington)
KwaZulu Natal

REQUIREMENTS : Applicant must be in possession of a Grade 12 certificate and Bachelor of
Science in the field of Agriculture (NQF 7). Must have a minimum of two (2)
years of experience in Agricultural Products Inspection. Job-Related
Knowledge: Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Public
Service Act, Document tracking system, Relevant computer training, Relevant
Acts and International Agreement, Regulations and Standards, Customer
Services, Financial management, Meeting procedures, Evaluation of products,
Compute networks, Supervision of personnel and related matters. Job Related
Skills: Good interpersonal skills, Ability to communicate well with people at
different levels, Planning and organizing skills, Ability to motivate
people/subordinates, Good telephonic etiquette, Ability to act with tact and
discretion, interpretation of relevant legislations language, identification of
shortcomings in legislations, Training/guide of personnel in performance of
their task, Communication skills (verbal & written). Negotiating/influencing
skills, budgeting and application of funds, Public Speaking, Problem Solving,
Conflict resolution and management, Information management, Identification
and planning, Chairing of meetings. The candidate must be willing to travel,
work extended hours and be in a possession of a valid driver’s license.

DUTIES : Render inspection in accordance with relevant act and legislation. Conduct
inspections at manufacturing facilities and retailers, Pest Control Operators,
sterilizing plants and import sites. Issue non-compliance / compliance notice to
clients. Conduct plant pre-inspections to facilitate registration. Provide advice
and guidance to stakeholders, manufacturer, farmers, distributors, Pest Control
Operators and consultants with regards to compliance to legislation,
regulations and procedures. Provide technical reports to stakeholders and
other strategic partners (inspection, compliance and non-compliance). Seize
non-complying products/operations. Conduct sampling of for monitoring
purposes. Interact and collaborate with various stakeholders with regards to
technical matters. Develop/compile progress reports on outstanding and
finalised work. Initiate prosecution with non-compliance. Conduct audits.
Assess compliance to all applicable regulatory standards through performance
of quality audits. Assess quality assurance practices within the industry, Pest
Control Operators, sterilizing plants and farmers including Quality System
requirements. Apply appropriate auditing methodologies (sampling techniques,
following audits trails, investigations, reporting, etc. Issue non-compliance /
enforcement notice to clients. Initiate the review and approval of audit
responses and corrective action plans. Advise the industry on regulatory
requirements including domestic and internal standards applicable to the
company and consequences of non-conformance. Make recommendations,
follow up and initiate prosecution for non-complying products/operation. Seize
non-complying products / operations. Compile reports. Complaint
management. Analyse, categorise and prioritise complaints according to the
level of risk involved. Conduct inspections and investigations on the matter and
report thereon. Initiate prosecution for non-compliance. Refer dockets to the
relevant authorities (SAPS/Court prosecutors) for finalisation. Give guidance to
the SAPS, Prosecutor, etc, with regards to handling matters related to Act
36/47 and which needs to be prosecuted to SAPS and Prosecutor. Prepare
and provide advice for trail purposes. Testify in court where necessary. Present
condemnation to be filed to State Attorneys and Legal counsel and appeal court
cases. Seize non-compliance products/operations. Provide reports
accordingly. Conduct awareness campaign/capacity building. Develop
presentation and awareness material. Conduct awareness campaigns for
internal and external stakeholders (farmers’ day, agricultural shows, meetings,
workshops, etc.). Coordinate, liaise and lead in activities related to awareness
with various stakeholders. Conduct raids at points of interest (railways stations,
taxi ranks and other informal markets). Represent the department at
stakeholder meetings (industries, various departments, directorates, famer’s
organisations. Etc.)

ENQUIRIES : Ms Melanie Israel Tel No: (051) 409 2628
APPLICATIONS : Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to 20 Steve
Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email
CALIrecruit392025@nda.gov.za.
NOTE : African, Coloured, Indian, White Males and African, Coloured and White
Females, and persons with disability are encouraged to apply

POST 03/04 : SENIOR AGRICULTURE REGISTRATION OFFICER REF NO: 3/3/1/37/2025

Directorate: Agriculture Inputs Control
SALARY : R397 116 per annual
CENTRE : Gauteng (Pretoria)

REQUIREMENTS : Applicant must be in possession of a Grade 12 certificate and National Diploma
or B-Degree in Public Management or Administration / Office Administration
(NQF 6). Must have a minimum of one (1) year relevant experience. JobRelated Knowledge: Knowledge of Fertilizer, Farm Feeds, Agriculture
Remedies and Stock Remedies Act No.36 of 1947 together with its regulations
and standard operating procedures. Public Service Regulations, Procurement
procedures. Regulations relating to agricultural inputs, pest control operators
and sterilizing plants. Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Planning and
organizing. DPSA HR policies and prescripts. Job Related Skills: Supervisory
skills, Planning and executions, Good interpersonal skills, Problem solving
skills, Computer literacy, report writing, Ability to communicate well with people
at different levels. Customer services skills, Telephonic etiquette, Motivational
skills, Innovative thinking and Communication skills (verbal & written). The
candidate must be willing to work extended hours and be in a possession of a
valid driver’s license.

DUTIES : To coordinate and oversee the provision of administrative services in the
registration of agricultural inputs in line with relevant legislations. Manage the
registration of agricultural remedies applications in terms of the Fertilizer, Farm
Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act (Act No. 36 of 1947).
Respond to routine enquires with both the internal and external stakeholder.
Develop and ensure maintenance of information databases and records
management system. Verify the correctness of the registration documents
issued to stakeholders. Compile correspondence to clients and external and
internal stakeholders in relation to the registration applications. Compile
statistical information/repots relating to the registration applications. Liaise with
the Agricultural Management Advisors or Registrar for processing of
registration applications. Represent the unit at the stakeholder liaison
meetings. Oversee and provide general financial administrative support for
registration of Agricultural Inputs. Facilitate payment to service providers for
service rendered. Ensure that the prescribed registration application fees are
paid as per the regulations. Locate and verify the payment of application
received. Verify and reconcile the revenue collected through ledger notices.
Provide support in the review of tariffs for services offered by the directorate.
Facilitate the refunding of overpayments or duplicate revenue. Assist auditors
with audit process in the directorate. Process minor Agricultural Inputs
registration applications. Receive and verify documentation for minor
applications (e.g. renewal of products, products name changes and product
ownership changes). Ensure that the correct prescribed tariffs are paid.
Approve minor applications and issue certificate accordingly. Staff Supervision.
Allocate and ensure quality of work. Ensure capacity and development of staff.
Ensure proper utilization of equipment. Assess staff performance. Apply
discipline.

ENQUIRIES : Mr David Motloi Tel No: (012) 319 6889
APPLICATIONS : Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to 20 Steve
Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email
SAROrecruit372025@nda.gov.za
NOTE : African, Coloured, Indian, White Males and African, Coloured and White
Females, and persons with disability are encouraged to apply

POST 03/03 : SCIENTIFIC TECHNICIAN – GRADE A REF NO: 3/3/1/29/2025

Directorate: Genetic Resources
SALARY : R391 671 per annum
CENTRE : Western Cape (Stellenbosch)

REQUIREMENTS : Applicants must be in possession of a Grade 12 Certificate and a National
Diploma in Agricultural Science / Biological Science / Botanical Science or
relevant qualification. Compulsory registration with the South African Council
for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Certified Natural Scientist.
3 years post-qualification technical (scientific) experience. Job related
knowledge: Knowledge of Plant Breeder’s Rights Act and Plant Improvement
Act. Scientific methodologies. Research and development. Computer-aided
Scientific application. Technical report writing. Creating high performance
culture. Professional judgement. Data analysis. Mentoring. Job related skills:
Analytical skills. Problem solving and analysis. Team leadership. Creativity.
Financial management. Customer focus and responsiveness. Communication.
Computer literacy. People management. Planning and organising. Conflict
management. Negotiation skills. Change management. Networking.

DUTIES : Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems and procedures
relevant to evaluation of new plant varieties. Perform technical scientific
functions and tasks that require interpretation in the presence of an established
framework. Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies,
policies, systems and procedures. Identify gaps and develop appropriate
interventions. Prepare for and participate in research activities. Collect data
through field surveys. Maintain, calibrate and operate scientific equipment.
Provide technical support and advice relevant to evaluation of new plant
varieties. Develop working relations with client base. Promote public
awareness of scientific activities. Provide technical / scientific data, information
and advice. Perform technical scientific analysis and regulatory functions
relevant to evaluation of new plant varieties. Preparation of data and routine
interpretation. Manage database. Analysis of technical scientific data.
Disseminate information. Apply the appropriate scientific and technical
procedures / skills to generate information and knowledge. Formulate
proposals and compile reports. Develop and customise operational
procedures. Conduct research and development relevant to evaluation of new
plant varieties. Ensure continuous professional development to keep up with
new technologies and procedures. Conceptualise and develop scientific
equipment. Review equipment. Research / literature studies to improve
expertise. Publish and present technical reports and research findings. Liaise
with relevant bodies / councils on technology-related matters. Develop human
capital. Mentor, train and develop candidate research technicians and others
to promote skills / knowledge transfer and adherence to sound scientific
principles and code of practice. Supervise technical support and processes.
Manage the performance management and development of staff.

ENQUIRIES : Mr SJ Ndlazi Tel No: (012) 319 6086
APPLICATIONS : Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to: 20 Steve
Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email
STrecruit292025@nda.gov.za.
NOTE : African and Indian Males and Coloured Females, and persons with disability
are encouraged to apply.

POST 03/02 : SCIENTIST PRODUCTION GRADE A REF NO: 3/3/1/38/2025

Directorate: Food Safety and Quality Assurance
SALARY : R761 157 per annum, (OSD), (all-inclusive package structured in accordance
with the OSD rules)
CENTRE : Gauteng (Pretoria)

REQUIREMENTS : Science degree (BSc)(Hon) in Food Sciences / Food Technology or relevant
qualification. Compulsory registration with South African Council for Natural
Scientific Professions (SACNSP) as a Professional Natural Scientist. Job
Related Work Experience: Three (3) years post- qualification experience. Job
Related Knowledge: Applicants must have knowledge of Public Service and
Departmental prescripts/policies. Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
Agricultural Products Standard Act 119 of 1990. International agreements,
conventions and bilateral agreements relating to sanitary and food quality
matters. Relevant legislation and regulations, norms and standards. Export and
import requirements. Job Related Skills: Programme & project management.
Scientific methodologies. Research & development. Knowledge of legal
compliance. Data analysis. Computer-aided scientific applications. Technical
report writing. Creating a high-performance culture. Professional judgment.
Presentation skills. Mentoring. Decision making. Team leadership. Analytical
skills. Creativity. Financial management. Customer focus and responsiveness.
Communication. Networking. Computer literacy. People management.
Planning and organizing. Conflict management. Change management.
Problem solving and analysis. Extended working hours. Handling of hazardous
chemicals.

DUTIES : Develop and implement methodologies, systems and procedures. Evaluate,
Compile and amend regulations, product standards, policies, guidelines with
regard to the quality, composition, packaging, marking, labelling, inspection,
control and monitoring of identified agricultural products destined for export,
import and local markets and ensure that these are in compliance with
international food safety and quality requirements. Obtain inputs from industry
and other relevant role players with regard to the drafted product standards,
policies, procedures and guidelines. Draft/amend regulations, export standards
and requirements for local and imported agricultural products. Identify food
safety and quality risks by monitoring international standards, best practices,
and local conditions. Conduct a needs assessment and evaluate the results
thereof. Compile draft legal framework and publish a government gazette
notice to invite comments. Coordinate the publication of approved regulations
in the government gazette. Improve internal processes by providing inputs into
the drafting of policies and/or guidelines on the interpretation of the relevant
Act and assisting with and reviewing of the implementation thereof by other
divisions. Perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions. Provide
technical advice and guidance on the interpretation and application of the
legislative framework to stakeholders. Provide inputs in the drafting of policies
and guidelines on the Agricultural Products Act (APS Act) and the
implementation thereof by other divisions. Evaluate labels and / or marking
requirements for agricultural products and make recommendations. Conduct
import and export risk assessment on agricultural products and issue
certification documentation accordingly. Process applications for
dispensations, registrations, etc. Obtain, evaluate and disseminate information
on international trends to local industries to keep them informed of new
trends/requirements. Manage and maintain databases and information related
to the following. registrations and /or cancellation of labels for the export of
agricultural products, maximum residue limits (MRLs) for processed products,
etc, destined for export, newly published regulations, import and export
standards, notices and draft regulations and standards for gathering public
comments, and Standard Operating Procedures. Research and Development.
Liaise with national and international stakeholders, industry role players, other
departments and DoA officials on technical matters related to food safety and
quality assurance. Obtain, evaluate, update and disseminate the relevant
international information to keep South African (SA) industries and other
divisions informed of new trends/requirements. Participate in the formulation of
SA’s positions in international meetings with regard to the harmonization of
food safety and quality assurance issues. Provide inputs (technical and
scientific) on resolutions, guidelines, scientific papers, technologies, and
production practices to ensure compliance with national and international food
safety and quality requirements for agricultural products in terms of South
Africa’s membership to international standard setting bodies (e.g, United
Nations Economic Commission for European, Codex Alimentarius
Commission, and Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
etc.) Coordinate and participate in local meetings, workshops, seminars
relevant to food quality and sanitary matters. Human Capital and Development.
Mentor, train and develop staff in order to promote skills/knowledge transfer.
Supervise scientific work and processes. Manage the performance and
development of staff.

ENQUIRIES : Dr Mbulaheni Mutengwe Tel No: (012) 319 6121
APPLICATIONS : Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to: 20 Steve
Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email
SPrecruit382025@nda.gov.za
NOTE : African and Indian Males and India Females, and persons with disability are
encouraged to apply

POST 03/01 : SCIENTIFIC MANAGER GRADE A REF NO: 3/3/1/40/2025

Directorate: Land Use and Soil Management
SALARY : R1 099 488 per annum, (OSD), (all-inclusive package to be structured in
accordance with the OSD rules)
CENTRE : National Office: Gauteng (Pretoria)

REQUIREMENTS : Applicants must be in a possession of a Grade 12 Certificate and a MSc
Degree in agriculture or equivalent Agricultural NQF level 9 qualifications.
SACNAP registration as a Professional Natural Scientist (Agriculture, Soil
Science). 6 years relevant post qualification experience in the field of natural
agricultural resources management. Appropriate experience in the application
of Geographical Information System (GIS) within the field of natural agricultural
resources assessment and inventories. Job Related Knowledge: Knowledge
and application of Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983,
Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act 70 of 1970, Preservation and Development
of Agricultural Land Act, 39 0f 2024, Spatial Data Infrastructure Act 54 of 2003
and Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act 16 of 2013. Advanced
knowledge and understanding of the natural agricultural resources of South
Africa, the protection and long-term sustainable use thereof within a set of
related systems. Broad knowledge and understanding of natural agricultural
resource, sustainable land use and data policies, conventions, legislations,
regulations, norms and standards. Broad knowledge and understanding of
research, research principles, methodologies and approaches use for natural
agricultural resources / sustainable land use. Knowledge of stand-alone mobile
and internet based Geographical Information Systems, applications and tools
including the principles, concepts, modelling and software packages used.
Knowledge regarding the methodologies / formats used and the application
thereof in the development of user requirements, system specifications and
test cases. Knowledge to develop and present training courses on the use of
data, Information and Systems (including GIS) and the interpretation /
limitations and the use of available data. Knowledge on effective stakeholder
management including leadership, consultation, negotiation and development.
Knowledge on effective management of personnel, HR matters and assets
including effective project management. Knowledge of relevant computer
equipment, hard and software. Job Related Skills: Geo- data collection,
verification, analysis and modelling, interpretation, visualisation and publishing
with regards to: Land capacity, Land suitability, Agricultural potential,
Agricultural ecological and land use zones, Land use systems & practices and
conservation status of the natural agricultural resources. Formulation,
interpretation and implementation of related policies, legislation, strategies and
standards. Analytical and critical/strategic thinking, monitoring, analysis, report
writing, communication and presentation skills including verbal and electronic
exchange of information, national as well as international verbal presentations
on complex topics, complex scientific publications, governance related
motivations and project management. Planning organisation, execution
maintenance and problem-solving pertaining to GIS. Ability to develop and
present training courses on the collection, management and use of Georeferenced data, information and knowledge. Development of user and
systems requirements in the absence of establishment frameworks based on
research and user needs. Ability to manage personnel, knowledge and change.
Computer skills. Customer focus and responsiveness. Extended working
hours. Travelling. Valid driver’s license.

DUTIES : Provide leadership to develop and implement national policy, regulatory
strategic and administrative frameworks/ systems to manage the collection,
use and preservation of data, information and knowledge require for the
planning, management and sustainable use of natural agricultural resources.
Develop relationships and collaborations with provincial, national, regional and
international counterparts. Provide inputs and/or develop policies, legislation,
strategies and administrative systems to ensure the collection, analysis,
dissemination, use and archiving of data, information and knowledge. Evaluate
and monitor the effectiveness, efficiency of and compliance with policies,
legislation and administrative systems and guide the setting of scientific
standards, specifications and service standards. Provide expert support and
advice to stakeholders. Oversee the development and application of
scientific/technical methodologies, procedures and standards to ensure the
availability and use of geo-referenced data, information and knowledge,
monitor the efficiency thereof and evolve with new technology. Develop
relationships and collaborations with provincial, national and international
counterpart. Design scientific methodologies, procedures and standards for
and ensure the collection, analysis dissemination, use and archiving of
scientific data and information. Present and exchange scientific data,
information and knowledge at national, regional and international forums.
Evaluate and monitor the efficiency/impact of methodologies, systems,
standards and the accuracy of data and information. Provide export support
and advice to stakeholders. Lead and coordinate research
programmes/projects and conduct research to deliver the data, information and
knowledge required for the planning, management and sustainable use of the
natural agricultural resources. Lead, co-ordinate and conduct basic
(fundamental) and applied research. Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on
science related matters. Ensure knowledge generation and dissemination.
Formulate and evaluate research proposals. Review scientific reports and
publications. Compile research reports, publish and present research findings.
Source funding for research projects. Manage the development of human
resources effectively and efficiently. Continuous own professional development
to keep up with new technologies and procedures. Mentor, train and develop
scientists and others to promote skills/knowledge transfer and adherence to
sound scientific principles and code of practice. Supervise scientific work and
processes. Manage the development and performance of staff.

ENQUIRIES : Mr R K Mompholo Tel No: (012) 319 7687
APPLICATIONS : Applications can be submitted by hand delivery during office hours to: 20 Steve
Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 or by email
SMrecruit402025@nda.gov.za
NOTE : Coloured and Indian Males and African, Coloured and Indians Females, and
persons with disability are encouraged to apply

We wish you all the best with your applications