The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (PDARD) is currently seeking motivated individuals to fill the position of Assistant Agricultural Practitioner across various provinces in South Africa. This article provides an overview of the job, the requirements, and how to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Position Overview
The Assistant Agricultural Practitioner role offers a three-year fixed-term contract with a focus on assisting in agricultural development and providing crucial support to farmers and agricultural projects. The available positions span across seven provinces, including Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North-West, and Western Cape.
This position plays a vital role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, assisting in the development of farming methods, and ensuring that resources like soil, water, and land are optimally utilized for long-term sustainability.
Salary & Benefits
- Annual Salary: R193,359
- Benefits: 37% in lieu of benefits
The position offers competitive compensation, along with exposure to various agricultural initiatives that aim to benefit rural communities and enhance food security.
Key Responsibilities
The role of an Assistant Agricultural Practitioner is varied, providing a range of responsibilities that contribute to the development of sustainable farming practices:
- General Agricultural Advice: Assisting in providing agricultural advice to farmers, both internal and external clients.
- Farm Demonstrations: Demonstrating farming methods to ensure effective resource utilization, such as soil, water, and veld management.
- Farmer Engagement: Organizing farmer days and information sessions to engage with the agricultural community.
- Farm Visits & Impact Assessments: Conducting regular farm visits to assess the effectiveness of current practices and gather data for farm business plans.
- Training & Capacity Building: Facilitating the development of skills in farmers and organizing training sessions for capacity building.
- Support for Agricultural Projects: Providing technical support for agricultural projects, land development initiatives, and food security programs.
- Database Management & Reporting: Keeping up-to-date records of farming data and providing monthly and quarterly reports on agricultural progress.
Skills and Competencies
Applicants for the Assistant Agricultural Practitioner role are expected to possess:
- Knowledge of Agricultural Practices: A solid understanding of agricultural methods and practices is required, including resource management and sustainability.
- Strong Communication Skills: The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with farmers, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
- Basic Public Speaking: Comfort in addressing groups, especially during demonstrations and training sessions.
- Teamwork and Client Interaction: Ability to work collaboratively and interact with a range of clients, including farmers and stakeholders.
- Fieldwork Readiness: Applicants must be prepared to physically visit farms and agricultural projects within their assigned region.
Qualifications & Requirements
To apply for the position, candidates must meet the following qualifications and requirements:
- Educational Requirements: A three-year Diploma in Agriculture (NQF Level 06 or higher).
- Professional Registration: Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professional (SACNAP).
- Driver’s License: A valid Code B driver’s license is mandatory.
- Experience: No prior work experience is required, making this a great opportunity for recent graduates or individuals looking to start a career in agriculture.
How to apply
The application process is province-specific. Interested candidates should submit their applications following the guidelines below:
1. Free State Province
- Send applications via email to recruitment@dard.gov.za (Attention: Ms. S Hlekiso)
- Or deliver them to: Admin Building, 1st Floor, Room 228, Glen College of Agriculture, Glen.
2. Gauteng Province
- Apply online at http://professionaljobcentre.gov.za
- Or hand-deliver applications to: Ground Floor, Main Entrance, 56 Eloff Street, Umnotho House, Johannesburg.
3. KwaZulu Natal Province
Email applications to kznjobssouth@dard.gov.za,
or deliver them to the following locations:
- Cedara Office Reception (Head Office), Pietermaritzburg
- Hilton Office
- Richards Bay Office.
4. Mpumalanga Province
- Email applications to dardlearecruitment-ho@mpg.gov.za
- Or deliver them to: Samora Machel Building, Riverside Park, Mbombela.
5. Northern Cape Province
Send applications to:
- blommiejacobs@ncpg.gov.za
- tpika@ncpg.gov.za
- Or deliver them to: 162 George Street, Kimberley.
6. North-West Province
- Email applications to Dardrecruitment-HO@nwpg.gov.za (Attention: Ms. Keneilwe Modiegi)
- Or hand-deliver them to: Director, Human Resource Management, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Office.
7. Western Cape Province
Apply online via:
Closing Date: Applications must be submitted by 15 August 2025 at 16:00.
Additional Information
- Pre-entry Assessments: Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments, including a practical and an ethical conduct assessment.
- Documentation Required: Applicants must submit the following documents: a completed Z83 Form, a detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of their Identity Document, Grade 12 Certificate, highest qualification, and proof of professional registration (only if shortlisted).
- Foreign Qualifications: Candidates with foreign qualifications must provide an evaluation report from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Note: Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process at any stage and re-advertise the position.
Contact Information
For further queries, applicants can contact the relevant provincial offices:
- Free State: Ms. NF Ngulube at (079) 228 1042
- Gauteng: Ms. Gugu Nevondo at (072) 756 5262
- KwaZulu Natal: Mr. NL Ntshangase at (033) 343 8133 or Mrs. RN Ndwandwe at (033) 343 8498
- Mpumalanga: Ms. S.P Shongwe at (013) 766 6003 or Ms. N.E Hlatshwayo at (013) 766 6110
- Northern Cape: Ms. L. Phayane at (067) 166 2580
- North-West: Ms. K Modiegi at (018) 384 3134
- Western Cape: Mr. JD Aries at (021) 808 5103
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This position is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about agriculture, rural development, and supporting sustainable farming practices. Preference will be given to youth, women, and people living with disabilities.