The ARC–Animal Production (ARC-AP) invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Research Support Assistant X50: Rangeland and Forage Science, based in Irene, Pretoria. These contract positions form part of ongoing research initiatives focused on supporting field activities, data collection, and project implementation within a dynamic scientific environment. Successful candidates will play an important role in assisting research teams, maintaining equipment, and ensuring tasks are completed accurately and efficiently while complying with Occupational Health and Safety standards.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are motivated, responsible, and capable of working in physically demanding conditions, including outdoor environments and varying weather. Applicants with Grade 12, good communication skills, and the ability to work independently are encouraged to apply, while prior experience in a research environment will be an added advantage. A market-related salary is offered, and appointments will be subject to security clearance and relevant employment equity considerations. Applications must be submitted with all required supporting documents before the closing date of 27 February 2026.

Position: Research Support Assistant X50: Rangeland and Forage Science
Job Reference Number: AP101
Location: Irene, Pretoria
Closing Date: 27 February 2026

Department: 02 – API
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 50
Salary: Market Related

The ARC–Animal Production (ARC-AP) seeks to appoint highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic persons to the following positions at Irene, Pretoria.

JOB DESCRIPTION

• Providing regular verbal and written feedback on field activities.
• Working closely with research personnel and assisting in achieving project deliverables.
• Ensuring accurate and timeous completion of assigned tasks.
• Maintaining data-collection equipment and ensuring cost-effective use of materials.
• Ensuring visible compliance with Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12.
• Good communication (written and verbal).
• Ability to do routine and physically demanding work in adverse weather conditions.
• Experience working in a research project/environment will be an added advantage.
• Strong sense of responsibility, accuracy, and independence.

ENQUIRIES

Mr P N Rakau
Tel: 012 672 9102

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 27 FEBRUARY 2026

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 driver’s 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.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates must submit a complete application package that includes a covering letter, a detailed CV with at least three recent contactable referees, certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents, and a copy of a valid driver’s licence. Applicants with foreign qualifications must also attach a SAQA evaluation report. All required documents must be properly certified and submitted as part of the application form, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applications must be submitted before the closing date of 27 February 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and applicants who do not receive any response within four (4) weeks after the closing date should regard their applications as unsuccessful. Appointment is subject to a positive security clearance, and the organisation reserves the right not to appoint.