SENIOR RESEARCH TECHNICIAN : PRODUCTION SYSTEMS

The Agricultural Research Council

2026/05/29   Bethlehem


Job Ref #: ARC-SG 3
Industry: Research
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1
The ARC seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position(s) at ARC-SG Bethlehem:
Job Description

Key Performance Areas:

Conceptualising, designing, formulating, and initiating technical projects across the Institute; these include leading the following aspects of project management:

Project Planning and Initiation.

  • Project Human Resources.
  • Project Finances.
  • Project technical risk management. 

Research Support, Diagnostics, and Other Services

Responsible for implementing and managing technical projects. These activities include the driving, leading and oversight of the following activities:

  • Invention.
  • Adoption, management, and use.
  • Translation.
  • Commercialisation.

Technology Transfer

Implementing and managing technology transfer initiatives in the institution, these are as follows:

  • Intellectual Property Assessment.
  • Prototype Development.
  • Testing and Validation.
  • Technology Partnerships.

Scientific Status Requirements

Responsible for implementing and managing scientific research endeavours; these include the following activities:

  • Innovation and Commercialisation.
  • Project / Programme impact.

Safety, Health, and Environment

The Research Technician 3 is Responsible for implementing and managing safety, health, and environmental compliance and standards. These include the following activities:

  • Regulatory Compliance.
  • Lab safety.
  • Hazardous material disposal.

Human Capital Development

 The Research Technician 3 is responsible for human capacity development, which includes:

  • Project staff.
  • Self-development.
Job Requirements
  • MTech. Degree or equivalent with 2 years applicable experience in managing field trials and data handling; or B degree or B Hons degree B.Tech., or National Higher Diploma with 6 years Applicable experience in managing field trials and data handling; or National Diploma (3 years) with 8 years applicable experience in managing field trials and data handling.
  • Experience in managing field trials and nurseries.
  • Tractor Driver experience will be an added advantage.
  • Registration with relevant scientific registration body, if applicable

Enquiries: Dr T Tsilo, Tel: (058) 307-3400

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 11 JUNE 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 and 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.