Professional Scientist Grade A/B/C (Horticulture) REF NO: NSC09/2026 KwaZulu-Natal

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:-

The Expert Horticultural Scientist (Grades A, B, C) role at Makhathini Research Station involves formulating and executing horticultural research methodologies, conducting scientific analyses, and overseeing human capital development. Key requirements include a B. Sc in Agriculture specializing in Horticulture, registration with SACNASP, relevant post-qualification experience, and proficiency in various technical and generic skills.

Job Title: Expert Horticultural Scientist (Grades A, B, C) REF NO: NSC09/2026 Company: Department of Agriculture and Rural Development: Kwazulu-Natal

SALARY : - Grade A: R791 604 per annum (including full OSD remuneration package) - Grade B: R900 957 per annum (including full OSD remuneration package) - Grade C: R1 015 071 per annum (including full OSD remuneration package)

CENTRE: Makhathini Research Station

REQUIREMENTS

• A four-year B. Sc in Agriculture degree at NQF level 08, specializing in Horticulture. - Mandatory registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist. - A valid driver’s licence. - Minimum of 3 years relevant post-qualification experience. - Comprehensive knowledge of agricultural research methodologies and practices in horticulture, as well as familiarity with the Labour Relations Act, Public Service Act, Public Administration Management Act, Public Service Regulations, Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service professionalization, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and Departmental HRM and HRD Policies.

SKILLS

• Technical: Proficiency in analytical skills, data analysis, scientific methodology, research and development, writing scientific papers, technical reports, and popular articles, scientific editing and reviewing, scientific, technical, and informative communication, programme and project management, and computer-aided scientific applications. - Generic: Leadership, mentorship, conflict management, financial management, planning and organizing, problem solving and analysis, creativity, decision making, change management, customer focus and responsiveness, communication, innovation, computer literacy, networking, creating a high-performance culture, and self-discipline with the ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision.

DUTIES

• Formulate and execute methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures specifically for horticultural research. - Conduct agricultural scientific analyses and regulatory functions. - Engage in research and development activities. - Oversee human capital development. - Perform administrative duties.