62 Lab Tech jobs in South Africa

• Prepare and process samples received by the laboratory's standard operating procedures.
• Support with associated research and assist with maintaining a biological repository.
• Maintain cultures for future use.
• Maintain sample information on LIMS and other relevant programs.
• Responsible for general laboratory administrative tasks.
• Responsible for stock control.
• Assist in a variety of research projects.

• Assist in technical preparations (compiling of SOPs, calibrating and servicing of equipment, etc.) necessary for the maintenance of the Quality Management System.

• National Diploma in Microbiology /Biotechnology or related field.

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology /biotechnology or related field will be an added advantage.
• Experience in disease diagnosis, pathogen identification, molecular biology, basic bioinformatics, and biobanking will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• A valid driver's license.

Enquiries: Mrs Puseletso Johnston: Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 24 SEPTEMBER 2025

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.

• Deliver technical assistance for research projects in the field of Entomology, as well as diagnostic and other services.
• Responsible for field and laboratory tasks generated by these projects, including trial site preparation, sampling, data collection, inspection of plant material identification of insects and pest control activities.
• The incumbent is, after appropriate training, expected to be able to recognize insect damage symptoms on deciduous fruit and vines in the Western Cape and be able to identify and quantify insects in the field and laboratory materials.
• The incumbent will be expected to plan own work activities, coordinate work activities and supervise allocated HR resources, if applicable.
• The incumbent regularly reports back through verbal/written reports to the supervisor and other project leaders on work activities and results.
• Assist with the delivery of well-customised technology transfer/ training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, training courses and other events according to client needs.

• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.

• National Diploma (3 years) in crop protection and/or crop production or equivalent NQF6 with 3 years applicable experience

• Experience in integrated pest management in the grape and deciduous fruit industry will be an advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Dr. R Knoetze, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

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. The company has the right not to appoint.

• Deliver technical assistance for research projects in the field of Nematology, as well as diagnostic and other services.
• Responsible for field and laboratory tasks generated by these projects, including trial site preparation, sampling, data collection, plant evaluations, nematode extractions from soil and plant material.
• The incumbent is, after the appropriate training, expected to be able to recognize plant-parasitic nematode damage symptoms on deciduous fruit and vines in the Western Cape and to identify and quantify plant-parasitic nematodes in suspensions extracted from soil and plant materials.
• The incumbent will be expected to plan own work activities, coordinate work activities and supervise allocated resources, if applicable.
• The incumbent regularly reports back through verbal/written reports to the supervisor and other project leaders on work activities and results.
• Assist with the delivery of well-customised technology transfer/ training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, training courses and other events according to client needs.

• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.

• National Diploma (3 years) in crop protection and/or crop production or equivalent NQF6 with 3 years applicable experience

• Experience in plant-parasitic nematode management in the grape and deciduous fruit industry will be an advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Dr. R Knoetze, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

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. The company has the right not to appoint.

• Prepare samples by freeze-drying and milling before analysis.
• Conduct analysis of chemical nature.
• Chemical analysis will include, but not be limited to, Protein, Crude fibre, Neutral Detergent Fibre, Acid Detergent Fibre, Acid Detergent Lignin, dietary fibre, etc.
• Correctly apply techniques within specified guidelines.
• Timeously complete technical tasks according to set quality and accreditation standards.
• Efficiently plan and schedule analytical services according to given instructions.
• Cost-effective and accurate sample analysis in compliance with target dates and available resources.
• Accurate, timeous, and reliable reporting of analytical results.
• Cost-effective stock control according to regulations.
• Maintain and ensure that equipment is in working order and in compliance with applicable quality standards.
• Timely reporting of equipment malfunctions.
• Assist in maintaining a clean laboratory in general.
• Maintaining an Occupational and Health Safety laboratory according to Good Laboratory Practice.
• Assist in maintaining the accreditation status, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 of the laboratory.

• Comply with financial policies/procedures.

• Grade 12 (or equivalent NQF 4) with 6 years relevant experience in Analytical Chemistry or Food Science and currently studying towards a diploma/degree with 2 years theory & the progress report.

• A diploma or degree in Analytical Chemistry or Food Science will be an added advantage.
• Good conceptual, analytical, and writing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Deliver accurate and high-quality analysis, paying close attention to detail.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and work systematically.
• Good communication skills.
• The ability to respect and maintain confidentiality.
• Skilled to work as part of the team as well as independently.
• Experience in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and working in an accredited laboratory will be an advantage.
• In possession of a valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Ms. Boitsheko Mahapa Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 17 SEPTEMBER 2025

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. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form. 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. The company has the right not to appoint.

Responsibilities

• Contributes to research projects by Develop and validate analytical methods using HPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-OES/MS, and related technologies.
• Perform routine analytical testing of plant-based and other samples.
• Implement ISO 17025 quality requirements within the quality control (QC) facility.
• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans.
• Supervises allocated HR resources.
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls.
• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision.
• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems.
• Provides input into the optimisation of new technologies.
• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis.
• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results.
• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles).
• Adheres to quality standards.
• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures.
• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days).
• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact.
• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

• Contributes to research projects by Develop and validate analytical methods using HPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-OES/MS, and related technologies.
• Perform routine analytical testing of plant-based and other samples.
• Implement ISO 17025 quality requirements within the quality control (QC) facility.
• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans
• Supervises allocated HR resources
• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls
• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision
• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems
• Provides input into the optimisation of new technologies
• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis
• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results
• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles)
• Adheres to quality standards
• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures
• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days)
• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact
• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Support the management of research by compiling and executing technical activity plans.
• Plan, conduct and supervise the execution and collection of data of laboratory, glasshouse and field trials.
• Plan, conduct and supervise the isolation/extraction of plant pathogen (viruses) samples from various agricultural crops and seeds.
• Process samples for pathogen/s (viruses) identification and characterization from leaf samples and seeds.
• Capture and process technical data for analysis with different computer programs.
• Compile technical reports.
• Manage laboratory facilities, material and equipment and ensure the optimal utilization of resources.
• Assist with buying of consumables using Sage X3.
• Assist with compiling and managing project budgets.
• Stock taking of consumables and other laboratory reagents.
• Supervise and develop technical capacity of Research Assistants.
• Participation in scientific marketing events of the organization.
• Participate in technology transfer and promotion of research activities in the form of presentations, posters, workshops, training, products, services, literature, information days, courses and other events.

Description/Synopsis

A well-established agricultural company is seeking a Junior Agricultural Research Technician to join their research team in Potchefstroom. This role offers the opportunity to plan, execute, and analyze field trials across key row crops while contributing to crop innovation and improvement. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, research-driven, and passionate about agricultural development.

• Degree in Agriculture or related field, with proven research experience (University-level research essential)
• Driver’s License (essential for field travel)
• 1 – 2 years’ experience with statistical trial planning, execution, and reporting in an agricultural/laboratory environment
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and research tools
• Knowledge of row crops such as maize, soy, sunflower, sorghum, and wheat highly advantageous
• Self-motivated, responsible, and detail-oriented

• Plan, execute, and analyze field trials for crops including maize, sunflower, sorghum, and soy
• Collect, record, and analyze trial data to support crop improvement strategies
• Assist with trial setups, farmer’s days, and grower support during plantings and harvests
• Collaborate with sales teams on trial campaigns during peak seasons
• Coordinate logistics and ensure trials are maintained to company standards
• Prepare research reports and contribute to new product development

• Passionate about agricultural research and farming innovation
• Strong communication skills and ability to engage with growers and clients
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail

• Contributes to research projects by Develop and validate analytical methods using HPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, ICP-OES/MS, and related technologies.

• Perform routine analytical testing of plant-based and other samples.


• Implement ISO 17025 quality requirements within the quality control (QC) facility.


• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans


• Supervises allocated HR resources


• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls


• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision


• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems


• Provides input into the optimisation of new technologies


• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis


• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results


• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles)


• Adheres to quality standards


• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures


• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days)


• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact


• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

• National Diploma or BTech/BSc in Analytical Chemistry or a closely related field.


• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience in analytical chemistry research.


• Fundamental knowledge of chromatography and analytical instrumentation.


• Ability to work under pressure while ensuring timely and high-quality analysis.


• Experience in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory will be an advantage.


• Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems.


• Good communication skills (verbal and written).


• Strong computer literacy.


• Registration with a relevant scientific or professional body will be an added advantage.


• Valid driver's license will be added an Advantage

Enquiries: . Mr Bernard Mabotja Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 06 OCTOBER 2025

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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

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.