Department of Agriculture Laboratory Assistant Vacancy 2026 (Ref No: 3/3/1/12/2026).

The Department of Agriculture invites applications for the position of Laboratory Assistant within the Chief Directorate: Inspection and Quarantine Services. Suitably qualified applicants with a Grade 12 certificate and basic laboratory support capabilities are encouraged to apply. No prior work experience is required for this entry-level government opportunity.

This position offers an opportunity to gain experience in plant pathogen diagnostics, laboratory operations, and administrative support within a regulated scientific environment.

Position Details

Post Title: Laboratory Assistant
Reference Number: 3/3/1/12/2026
Salary: R193 359 per annum (Level 04)
Centre: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Directorate: Inspection and Quarantine Services
Closing Date: 24 April 2026 at 16:00

Minimum Requirements

• Applicants must possess a Grade 12 certificate.
• No previous work experience is required.
• Knowledge requirements include familiarity with Public Service and departmental prescripts and policies, understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and awareness of Public Service regulations.
• Computer literacy in MS Office software is required.
• Awareness of cultural diversity within a workplace environment is also expected.
• Applicants must demonstrate strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with individuals at different organizational levels.
• Planning and organizing abilities are essential for handling laboratory tasks and administrative responsibilities.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Key Responsibilities

• The Laboratory Assistant will support diagnostic laboratory activities related to the detection of plant pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, nematodes, and viruses. Responsibilities include preparing samples and supporting materials for laboratory testing processes.
• Duties involve collecting plant parts, water, soil, and tissue samples for preparation and analysis. Sample preparation tasks include weighing, cutting, grinding, labeling, and storing specimens according to laboratory standards. Media, stains, buffers, and reagents must be prepared accurately for laboratory use.
• The role includes assisting with packaging and transporting samples as required, as well as supporting decontamination procedures and disposal of used materials in compliance with safety regulations. Waste removal must be conducted according to prescribed procedures.
• Routine analysis on diagnostic samples will be performed under supervision of senior laboratory personnel. Responsibilities also include propagation of seeds and plants and maintenance of plant materials used for diagnostic purposes.
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment, instrumentation, and facilities forms part of daily operations. Faulty equipment must be reported promptly to ensure uninterrupted laboratory activities.
• Additional duties include maintaining cleanliness and order in laboratory environments, sterilizing glassware, washing laboratory coats, cleaning equipment, and monitoring temperatures of designated facilities and equipment.
• Administrative responsibilities include maintaining records, updating registers and databases, and supporting inventory control processes.

Employment Equity

Preference will be given to African males and females and persons with disabilities in line with Employment Equity targets.

Enquiries

Contact Person: Ms Melanie Arendse
Telephone: (021) 809 1605

Application Process

Applications must be submitted using a completed Z83 form together with a detailed Curriculum Vitae in PDF format not exceeding 10MB.

Applications may be submitted by hand delivery during office hours at:

20 Steve Biko Street
Agriculture Place
Arcadia
Pretoria
0002

Applications may also be submitted by email to: [email protected]

Late applications will not be considered. Duplicate submissions must be avoided. Separate applications must be submitted when applying for multiple posts.

Important Application Notes

Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of supporting documents, including identity documents and qualifications, prior to interviews. Applicants with foreign qualifications must provide evaluation reports issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

Shortlisted applicants will undergo two compulsory pre-entry assessments consisting of a practical assessment and an integrity assessment. Candidates recommended after interviews may also be subjected to competency assessments aligned with Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) directives.

Personnel suitability checks will be conducted, including security vetting, criminal record checks, qualification verification, reference checks, and screening of social media profiles where applicable.

Applicants must declare any pending criminal matters, disciplinary cases, investigations, conflicts of interest, board memberships, or directorships. Failure to disclose required information may result in disqualification or termination of employment.

False or fraudulent qualifications submitted during the recruitment process will be reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

If no communication is received within three months after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful. The Department reserves the right not to fill the position or to re-advertise the post if necessary.