Candidate Scientist: Plant Sciences – Cape Town – Department Of Agriculture

Candidate Scientist: Plant Sciences role in Cape Town with the Department of Agriculture, a vital government job in South Africa

Published 10 November 2026
Closing Date 20 November 2026 — 5 days left
Type
Opportunity

About the Role

The Department of Agriculture is looking for a passionate Candidate Scientist in Plant Sciences to join their dedicated team in Cape Town, Western Cape. This role is crucial in supporting the implementation of vital methodologies, policies, and procedures that enhance agricultural practices in the region. By assisting in compliance facilitation and providing expert advice to various stakeholders, you will play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable agricultural growth and development within the community.

Your contributions will directly impact the agricultural landscape of South Africa, ensuring that practices adhere to the highest standards of quality and innovation. This position offers you the opportunity to make a difference in the public service, working alongside professionals committed to advancing agriculture and ensuring food security for all.

About the Department

The Department of Agriculture is dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring food security across the Western Cape. Its mission is to support farmers, improve productivity, and enhance the overall agricultural economy through innovative research and development initiatives. Working here means being part of a critical effort to strengthen the agricultural sector, providing essential support and services that benefit not only farmers but also the wider community.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist in implementing methodologies, policies, and systems related to plant sciences.
  • Facilitate compliance with established agricultural standards and regulations.
  • Provide expert advice to internal and external clients on agri-processing initiatives.
  • Support capacity building efforts through training and workshops.
  • Engage in research and development projects to improve agricultural practices.

What You’ll Need

  • A National Diploma in Science or a relevant qualification.
  • Registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNAPS) as a Certificated Natural Scientist in training is mandatory upon appointment.
  • Working knowledge of scientific methodologies and research and development processes.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided scientific applications and data analysis.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and networking skills.
  • Ability to manage conflicts and solve problems effectively.

How to Apply

All applications must be hand delivered at the specified location or submitted online as outlined in the application instructions below.

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.

Job 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.

Salary

R687 036 per annum, (all-inclusive salary package), (OSD as prescribed).

How to Apply

All applications must be hand delivered at: 389 Sophie De Bruyn Street, Pretoria. To submit an application online, click the link under the post you wish to apply for. Attach only a copy of CV and completed Z83. Email size must be limited to 2MB. Failure to follow instructions will result in your application being disqualified. For General enquiries, contact Human Resources on Tel No: 012 748 6297 /012 748 6277. PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATION: GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (LERATONG HOSPITAL): Kindly note that the following X1 post that was advertised with the incorrect package in Public Service Vacancy Circular 39 dated 30 October 2026, the correct package is Grade 1 – R1 395 528 per annum (all-inclusive package) Grade 2: R1 592 274 per annum (all-inclusive package) Grade 3: R1 844 151 per annum (all- inclusive package) (1) Medical Specialist: Internal Medicine with Ref No: REFS/057196 3 INDEX NATIONAL DEPARTMENTS NATIONAL DEPARTMENTS ANNEXURE PAGES DEFENCE A 04 - 05 ELECTRICITY AND ENERGY B 06 - 08 EMPLOYMENT AND LABOUR C 09 - 13 FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT D 14 - 20 GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION SYSTEM E 21 - 25 HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING F 26 - 59 JUDICIAL INPECTORATE FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES G 60 - 61 LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT H 62 - 80 MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES I 81 - 91 SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT J 92 - 93 SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE K 94 - 111 TOURISM L 112 - 119 TRANSPORT M 120 - 121 TREASURY N 122 - 126 WATER AND SANITATION O 127 - 140 WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES P 141 - 143 THE PRESIDENCY Q 144 - 147 PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATIONS PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATION ANNEXURE PAGES GAUTENG R 148 - 149 KWAZULU NATAL S 150 - 160 LIMPOPO T 161 MPUMALANGA U 162 - 170 NORTH WEST V 171 - 173 WESTERN CAPE W 174 - 248 4 ANNEXURE A DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE For Enquiries: Ms L Thabethe Tel No: (021) 808 7733