Agricultural Research Technician – Plant Breeding Support

Placements24; Upington; Sur place; ZAR 180 000 - 240 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive entry-level salary

On-the-job training

Access to institute facilities

Paid annual leave

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Research Technician to join a leading agricultural research institute in Upington. You will support plant breeding programs through hands-on experimental work, field trial management, data collection and basic laboratory analyses, contributing to resilient crop varieties for arid environments.

You will work with senior researchers to design and execute crosses, manage trials, collect samples, and maintain meticulous records while adhering to safety

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in agriculture or plant science or related field.
• Interest in plant breeding, genetics and crop science.
• Basic understanding of experimental design and data collection.
• Proficiency with MS Office, especially Excel, for data handling.
• Good communication and ability to work in a team.

Responsabilités

• Assist in plant breeding experiments, including crosses and self-pollinations.
• Manage field trials, collect accurate data, and monitor progress.
• Collect samples for lab analysis such as DNA extraction or phenotyping.
• Perform basic lab procedures related to plant genetics and breeding.
• Keep detailed records of procedures, observations and results.
• Prepare materials and equipment for field and lab work.
• Support data entry and preliminary analysis of results.
• Participate in seed increase and maintenance of breeding lines.
• Adhere to lab safety protocols and guidelines.
• Collaborate with researchers and other technicians to meet objectives.

Connaissances

Excel for data mgmt

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biotechnology, or related field

National Diploma in Agriculture

Outils

Laboratory basics

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural research institute located in the arid yet productive region of Upington, Northern Cape , is seeking a dedicated Agricultural Research Technician to support their plant breeding programs. This role is essential for conducting hands-on experimental work aimed at developing new crop varieties with enhanced resilience and yield for challenging environments. The successful candidate will assist senior researchers in various aspects of plant breeding, including crossing, field trial management, data collection, and laboratory analysis. This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience in plant genetics and breeding within the unique agricultural context of the Northern Cape, South Africa . We are looking for a meticulous, organized, and enthusiastic individual with a strong interest in agricultural research and a willingness to learn. Your contribution will be vital in advancing crop improvement efforts for arid and semi-arid regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting in the execution of plant breeding experiments, including controlled crosses and self-pollinations.
• Planting, managing, and monitoring field trials, ensuring accurate data collection.
• Collecting plant samples for laboratory analysis, such as DNA extraction or phenotyping.
• Performing basic laboratory procedures related to plant genetics and breeding.
• Maintaining detailed records of experimental procedures, observations, and results.
• Preparing experimental materials and equipment for field and laboratory work.
• Assisting with data entry and preliminary analysis of experimental results.
• Participating in seed increase and maintenance programs for breeding lines.
• Ensuring adherence to laboratory safety protocols and experimental guidelines.
• Collaborating with researchers and other technicians to achieve project objectives.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Previous experience in a research or agricultural setting is advantageous.
• A strong interest in plant breeding, genetics, and crop science.
• Basic understanding of experimental design and data collection principles.
• Good practical skills, with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data management.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a research team.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions typical of the Northern Cape .
• A valid driver's license is desirable for field work.

Benefits

• A competitive entry-level or junior salary.
• Opportunities for on-the-job training and skill development in plant breeding.
• Exposure to advanced research methodologies and technologies.
• A supportive and collaborative research environment.
• Contribution to agricultural innovation in South Africa .
• Access to institute facilities and resources.
• Paid annual leave and other statutory benefits.
• Potential for advancement to more senior research roles.
• Work experience in a specialized field of agricultural science.
• A chance to work in a unique agricultural region.