Research Support Assistant : Plant Improvement (Three Years (3) Fixed Term Contract) X4 (Nelspruit)

The Agricultural Research Council; Mbombela; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural research organization located in Nelspruit is seeking an individual for a junior contract position. Responsibilities include assisting with planting, nursery practices, and general upkeep of facilities. Candidates should have a Grade 12 qualification and basic agricultural knowledge. This organization offers a competitive remuneration package in a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Understanding of basic agricultural practices.
• Basic knowledge of manual operation of farm equipment and machinery.
• Ability to work in a team.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• Good understanding of health and safety procedures.
• Willing to work under adverse weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planting seeds and seedlings.
• Carrying out all nursery practices as directed.
• Correct use and maintenance of research tools.
• Assist with upkeep of glasshouses.
• Organizing and hosting scientific events.

Skills

Laboratory Experience

Data Collection

DNA Isolation

Biochemistry

Research Experience

Education

Grade 12

Job description

Description

• Assist with planting seeds and seedlings harvesting fruits for seed extraction irrigation and fertilizer application weed pest and disease control in all aspects and sampling plants for evaluation.
• Carrying out all nursery practices as directed by the Nursery Manager Researcher and / or Supervisor.
• Correct use and maintenance of research tools and equipment that are made available.
• Carrying out manual tasks assigned by the supervisor.
• Assist with the upkeep of glasshouses and soil preparation room.
• Provide support with organizing and hosting scientific events.
• Observance of Occupational Health and Safety instructions on the use of appropriate protective clothing

Requirements

• Grade 12.
• Understanding of basic agricultural practices.
• Basic knowledge on manual operation of farm equipment and machinery.
• Ability to work in a team.
• Good communication skills written and verbal.
• A valid South African Drivers license will be an added advantage.
• Good understanding of health and safety procedures.
• Willing to work under adverse weather conditions.

Enquiries : Mr Oscar Maphanga Email :

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS : 12 August 2025

NB : Preference will be given to applicants from the Nelspruit area

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.

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 drivers 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.

Work Level

Junior

Job Type

Contract

Salary

Market Related

Duration

2 - 3 Years

EE Position

No

Location

Nelspruit

Required Experience :

Junior IC

Key Skills

Laboratory Experience,Spss,Data Collection,DNA Isolation,Stata,Biochemistry,Qualitative Research Interviewing,Research Experience,Statistical Software,Molecular Biology,Research Laboratory Experience,Western Blot

Employment Type : Contract

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1