About the Role
The Department of Agriculture is seeking a Professional Scientist Grade A/B/C: Agrometeorologist to join their team at the Cedara Research Station in KwaZulu-Natal. This critical role involves the development and implementation of methodologies, policies, and systems that enhance agricultural productivity and resilience to climate variability. By performing scientific analyses and regulatory functions, you will play an essential part in bolstering agricultural risk reduction strategies and disaster management efforts in the region. The work you do will directly impact local farmers and communities, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and preparedness against various hazards.
The Cedara Research Station serves as a hub for innovative agricultural research, making this position not only pivotal for your career but also immensely rewarding for the communities relying on agriculture for their livelihoods. Your contributions will help to mitigate the effects of climate change, ensuring food security and economic stability in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Join a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the public service and the agricultural sector.
About the Department
The Department of Agriculture is committed to advancing agricultural practices that promote sustainability and efficiency. With a mission to provide comprehensive agricultural support and to safeguard the agricultural sector against risks, the department plays a vital role in South Africa’s economy. Working here means being part of a mission that prioritizes food security, environmental stewardship, and the welfare of farming communities across the nation.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and implement methodologies and policies for agricultural risk management.
- Conduct research and development projects focused on disaster risk reduction in agriculture.
- Perform scientific analyses and regulatory functions to support agricultural strategies.
- Engage in human capital development through training and mentorship initiatives.
- Handle administrative and professional duties related to agricultural research and disaster management.
What You’ll Need
- An NQF level 08 qualification in Agricultural Science or a BSc Honours in Agricultural Science – Agrometeorology.
- Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist.
- A valid driver’s licence.
- A minimum of 3 years’ post-qualification experience in Agriculture Risk Reduction and Disaster Management.
- Knowledge of disaster risk reduction, agricultural risk assessment, and climate impacts on agriculture.
- Strong skills in GIS mapping, data analysis, technical reporting, and stakeholder engagement.
How to Apply
Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.
Requirements
An NQF level 08 in Agricultural Science or BSc Honours in Agricultural Science - Agrometeorology, compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist and a valid driver’s licence.Experience: 3 years’ post-qualification experience in Agriculture Risk Reduction and Disaster Management.
Knowledge: Disaster risk reduction, agricultural risk assessment, vulnerability assessment, exposure analysis and disaster impact assessment.
Climate variability and change, drought, floods, veld fires, severe weather, pests, diseases and other hazards affecting agriculture.
Early warning systems, seasonal monitoring, agricultural advisory services, and preparedness planning.
Agricultural research methodology, data collection, data analysis, interpretation, GIS mapping and technical reporting.
Relevant legislation, policies, norms and standards applicable to disaster management, agricultural risk management, natural resource management and public administration.
Public Service Act, Public Service Regulations, 129 Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation, Public Finance Management Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act and Departmental Policies.
Skills: Technical: Agricultural disaster risk assessment, climate and hazard analysis, vulnerability and impact assessment, early warning interpretation, GIS and computer-aided mapping applications, date analysis, applied research, technical report writing, scientific presentation, project planning, monitoring and evaluation.
Generic: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, stakeholder engagement, planning and organising, professional judgement, teamwork, customer focus, financial awareness, adaptability, ethics and accountability.
Job Duties
Develop and implement methodologies, polices, systems and procedures.Perform scientific analysis and regulatory functions.
Conduct research and development.
Human capital development.
Perform administrative and professional duties.
