Exciting Department of Agriculture Vacancies 2026 Now Open in Pretoria

Are you passionate about agriculture, science, conservation, or animal production? The South African Department of Agriculture is offering exciting government career opportunities for motivated professionals ready to make a real impact in the country’s agricultural sector.

With competitive salaries, career growth opportunities, and the chance to contribute to food security and environmental sustainability, these vacancies could be your next big career move.

Applications close on 12 June 2026 at 16:00, so don’t miss out!

1. Scientific Technician Production Grade A – Genetic Resources

Join the Directorate of Genetic Resources at the renowned Roodeplaat Genebank in Pretoria and help protect South Africa’s valuable plant genetic resources for future generations.

Salary Package

Earn a competitive government salary of R407 337 per annum (OSD).

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is perfect for candidates with qualifications in:

• Botany
• Agronomy
• Horticulture
• Agriculture or related fields

Applicants must also have:

• Grade 12
• SACNASP registration
• At least 3 years’ relevant experience in agriculture, horticulture, or plant conservation

What You’ll Do

As part of the team, you will:

• Support seed conservation programmes
• Conduct germination testing
• Assist with gene bank management
• Collect and analyse research data
• Contribute to biodiversity and agricultural research projects

Ideal Candidate Traits

The Department is looking for individuals who are:

• Organised and detail-oriented
• Strong problem-solvers
• Computer literate
• Passionate about conservation and sustainability
• Willing to travel when required

Apply Now

Submit your application:

• By hand delivery to Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria
• Email: STPrecruit37@nda.gov.za

The Department encourages applications from coloured and white males, as well as persons with disabilities.

2. Agricultural Product Technician – Animal Production

Do you have expertise in animal science or livestock production? This is your opportunity to work within the Directorate of Animal Production and contribute to South Africa’s growing livestock industry.

Salary Offered

Successful candidates will receive R413 001 per annum (Level 8).

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants need:

• BSc Agric in Animal Production or Animal Science
  OR
• BTech / Advanced Diploma in Animal Science

Additional requirements:

• SACNASP registration
• At least 2 years’ relevant experience
• Knowledge of the Animal Improvement Act, 1998

Your Role Will Include

• Advising on animal products and genetic material
• Monitoring livestock import and export compliance
• Supporting breeding and genetic evaluation programmes
• Engaging with livestock industry stakeholders
• Compiling reports and maintaining databases

Skills That Will Help You Succeed

• Excellent communication skills
• Strong planning and organisational ability
• Knowledge of livestock regulations
• Ability to work under pressure and overtime when necessary

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted:

• By hand delivery to Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria
• Email: APTrecruit38@nda.gov.za

Preference will be given to African males and persons with disabilities in line with employment equity targets.

Important Application Requirements

To apply, candidates must submit:

• A completed Z83 form
• A detailed CV in PDF format (maximum 10MB)

Shortlisted candidates will later provide:

• Certified qualifications
• Certified ID copies
• SAQA evaluations (for foreign qualifications)
• Service certificates

Candidates may also undergo:

• Practical assessments
• Security vetting
• Integrity checks
• Reference checks
• Social media screening

Why Join the Department of Agriculture?

Working for the Department of Agriculture gives you the opportunity to:

• Build a stable and rewarding government career
• Contribute to food security and sustainable agriculture
• Work on national conservation and livestock programmes
• Develop specialised scientific and agricultural expertise
• Make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s future

If you are ready to take the next step in your agricultural or scientific career, apply before 12 June 2026 at 16:00.