Agricultural Research Council is Hiring for x50 Research Support Assistant Positions: Apply Now
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC-AP) is recruiting 50 Research Support Assistants in Rangeland and Forage Science at Irene, Pretoria. Contract positions available. Applications close 9 March 2026.
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC), through its Animal Production division (ARC-AP), has issued an erratum notice confirming the recruitment of 50 Research Support Assistants in the field of Rangeland and Forage Science. The contract-based positions are located in Irene, Pretoria, and form part of the council’s ongoing research initiatives within South Africa’s agricultural sector.
Listed under Job Reference Number AP101, these roles fall within the research industry and are structured to strengthen field-level data collection, project coordination, and scientific support activities.
Strengthening Agricultural Research Capacity
The ARC-AP division plays a critical role in advancing livestock production, pasture management, and forage research across the country. By recruiting 50 Research Support Assistants, the organization is reinforcing its operational capacity to meet project deliverables within rangeland and forage science programmes.
These appointments are designed to provide structured support to research personnel, ensuring that fieldwork activities are executed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with institutional standards.
Role Overview
The Research Support Assistants will operate within active research environments, contributing directly to project implementation and data integrity. The positions are contract-based and offer market-related remuneration aligned with the scope and responsibilities of the role.
Successful candidates will work closely with researchers and technical teams to ensure that field-based experiments and data-collection processes are carried out systematically.
Key Responsibilities
The role encompasses both technical and operational responsibilities, including:
- Providing regular verbal and written feedback on field activities.
- Working collaboratively with research personnel to achieve project deliverables.
- Ensuring the accurate and timely completion of assigned tasks.
- Maintaining data-collection equipment and promoting cost-effective material usage.
- Demonstrating visible compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies and procedures.
The emphasis on accuracy and compliance underscores the scientific rigor required in agricultural research settings.
Work Environment and Expectations
Rangeland and forage research often involves physically demanding tasks conducted in outdoor environments. Candidates must therefore be capable of performing routine and physically intensive duties under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions.
This requirement reflects the realities of agricultural field research, where data collection, vegetation assessment, and monitoring activities frequently occur in open landscapes.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 qualification.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to perform routine and physically demanding work.
- Demonstrated responsibility, accuracy, and independence.
While prior experience within a research project or research environment is considered advantageous, it is not mandatory.
Importantly, the ARC has clarified that a driver’s license is not a requirement for this position.
Important Application Notes
The organization has issued several critical notices for applicants:
- Candidates who previously applied for this position must not re-apply.
- The closing date for applications is 9 March 2026.
- Applications must include:
- A covering letter
- A detailed CV with at least three contactable referees
- Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents
- A copy of a driver’s license (if available)
Applicants holding foreign qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation report.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Employment Conditions
Appointments will be subject to a positive security clearance. Additionally, permanent appointments within the organization are subject to a six-month probation period.
The ARC has reiterated its commitment to employment equity. Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan. As an equal opportunity employer, the organization adheres strictly to the principles and provisions of the Employment Equity Act.
Candidates who do not receive feedback within four weeks after the closing date should regard their application as unsuccessful.
The organization also reserves the right not to appoint.
Strategic Importance of the Role
Rangeland and forage science remains a critical component of South Africa’s agricultural sustainability framework. Effective pasture management, livestock nutrition research, and ecosystem monitoring directly impact food security, livestock productivity, and climate resilience.
By expanding its field-support workforce, the ARC-AP division enhances its capacity to deliver evidence-based research outcomes that inform agricultural policy and farming practices nationwide.
The recruitment of 50 Research Support Assistants represents both a scaling effort and a reinforcement of data integrity standards within ongoing projects.
A Gateway into Agricultural Research
For individuals seeking exposure to structured scientific environments, these roles offer entry into a nationally recognized research institution. While the positions are operational in nature, they provide valuable experience in:
- Field research methodologies
- Data collection and reporting
- Equipment maintenance protocols
- Occupational health and safety compliance
- Research team collaboration
For school-leavers or early-career individuals with a strong work ethic and interest in agricultural science, this opportunity may serve as a stepping stone into broader research or technical pathways.
Enquiries
Prospective applicants may direct enquiries to:
Mr P. N. Rakau
Tel: 012 672 9102
Closing Date
All applications must be submitted by 9 March 2026.
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