Agriculture · Circular 40 of 2026

Candidate Scientist: Plant Sciences (3-YEAR Contract

Department of Agriculture

Overview

Candidate Scientist in Plant Sciences sought by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture on a three-year contract to support research, compliance, and agri-processing advisory services.

Requirements

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

Duties

  • Assist in the implementation of methodologies, policies, systems and 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.

How to apply

Only applications submitted online will be accepted. To apply submit your application online only: via http://www.westerncape.gov.za/jobs or https://westerncapegov.erecruit.co

Enquiries: Ms L Thabethe Tel No: (021) 808 7733

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. Selection panels shall score both technical exercises as an additional criterion in the interview process. 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. OTHER POSTS

Post 40/182, sourced from the DPSA Circular 40 of 2026. Apply directly to Department of Agriculture by 30 November 2026, quoting reference AGR 60/2026. This is an unofficial index; the advert in the circular is authoritative.

Location
Western Cape
Salary
R687 036 p/a
Closing date
30 November 2026
Reference
AGR 60/2026
How to apply →

Apply directly to the department, by the closing date, quoting the reference.