Research and Development Manager - Astral

Trending Talent Solutions; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agriculture company in Johannesburg is seeking an R&D Manager to deliver high-quality research in broiler production through the design and execution of trials. The ideal candidate has an MSc in Animal Science, with a minimum of 2 years of experience in trial management and agricultural environments. This role offers an opportunity to drive innovation and optimize production methodologies. The closing date for applications is October 13, 2025.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification: MSc in Agric Animal Science or in progress of obtaining the qualification.
• Advantage: Diploma in Data Analytics.
• Total of 2 years minimum work experience in agriculture and FMCG.

Responsibilities

• Design and implementation of trial protocols.
• Conduct broiler trials accurately according to protocol.
• Innovate and optimise broiler trial methodologies.

Skills

Poultry health and bio-security protocols

Feed formulation and techniques

Poultry management

Broiler performance testing

Research methodology

Data analysis

Education

MSc in Agric Animal Science

Diploma in Data Analytics

Job description

Role purpose

To deliver high-quality research through the planning and execution of broiler and breeder trials, to ensure bird performance optimisation aligned with our strategic objectives.

Role contribution to organisational strategy

Aligned with Astral's best cost and operational excellence, the R&D Manager optimises broiler production through trial management and protocol adherence, supporting sustainability and growth strategies.

Role Responsibilities

• Design and implementation of trial protocols.
• Conduct broiler trails accurately according to protocol.
• Accurate trial feed formulations.
• Innovate and optimise broiler trial methodologies.
• Implement waste reduction in trial processes.
• Drive adoption of technology in trials.
• Lead broiler production unit management initiatives.
• Foster supplier development for trial facilities.
• Ensure compliance with bio-security and health management.
• Precise data collection and analysis.

Role Requirements

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification: MSc in Agric Animal Science or in progress of obtaining the qualification.
• Advantage: Diploma in Data Analytics.

Experience

• Total of 2 years minimum work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years experience working in Agriculture & FMCG environment.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in trial feed formulation.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in conducting scientific broiler trials and the interpretation of results.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in managing a broiler production units.

Skills and Knowledge

• Poultry health and bio-security protocols.
• Feed formulation and techniques.
• Poultry management.
• Broiler performance testing.
• Research methodology.
• Data analysis.

Johannesburg

Lanseria

Published Date: 29 September 2025

Closing Date: 13 October 2025