14 Scientific Technician jobs in South Africa

Closing Date

2025/09/29

Reference Number

WCG

Tracking Number

AGR 64/2025

Job Title

Candidate Scientific Technician: Cropping Systems (3-year contract position) - Tygerhoek Research Farm, Riviersonderend, Ref No. AGR 64/2025

Department

Agriculture

Salary level

OSD

Enquiries

Prof J Strauss at

Job Type

Contract

Location - Country

South Africa

Location - Province

Western Cape

Location - Town / City

Tygerhoek Research Farm, Riviersonderend

Job Purpose

The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a competent and suitably qualified individual to assist in rendering technical support for research regarding the development of new technology and the adaptation of existing technology aimed at improving farming efficiency.

Minimum Requirements

An appropriate National Diploma/B-Degree or higher qualification in Agronomy/Crop Science or equivalent qualification; Registration with SACNASP as a Candidate Natural Scientist in the appropriate scientific field, is compulsory within 6 calendar months after appointment; A valid driving license (code B).

Recommendation

None.

Key Performance Areas

Render basic technical assistance in research projects for the development of more efficient farming practices; Administer the creation/adaptation/maintenance of the necessary infrastructure in accordance with the project plan; Perform all administrative and related functions which would include, Contributing to compilation of reports as required; Control assets allocated to projects; Monitor expenditure; Supervise personnel; Comply with the Public Service prescripts; Render basic advice and disseminate technical information to applicable role players through inter alia: Keep up to date with regard to the applicable prescripts, policies, procedures, technologies and new developments in the subject field.

Exposure to the research environment will be adantageous.

Competencies

Knowledge of the following: Small grain cropping systems (including crops, cultivation, plant-soilwater interaction); Conservation and regenerative agriculture; Cash crops and pastures used in the Western Cape; Use, settings, calibration and basic maintenance of appropriate equipment and implements; Technical scientific inputs needed for research projects; Major crops in the Western Cape Technical planning skills; Technical management skills; Communication skills (written and verbal); Computer literacy in MS Office Package (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Remuneration

R per annum (OSD as prescribed)

Note on remuneration: to-employer (CTE) remuneration packages for certain occupation-specific dispensations (OSD), the middle-management service (MMS) and contract positions are inclusive of all costs related to service benefits or obligations including basic salary, 13th cheque, medical assistance, housing assistance, pension-fund contributions, etc. MMS remuneration packages are flexible and may be individually structured as prescribed. Where remuneration is not indicated as CTE, employees' service benefits or obligations are funded or co-funded in terms of the applicable prescripts or collective agreements.

Notes

Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit copies of their documentation for verification purposes. These candidates will be required to complete a practical assessment and attend the interview on a date and time as determined by the department and may also be required to undergo competency assessments/proficiency test. The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department.

By applying for this position, you are consenting to the Western Cape Government contacting your previous employers/managers for an employment reference. Reference checks will include enquiries relating to your disciplinary records and reasons for leaving.

Should you experience difficulties with your online application, kindly note that technical support (challenges with online application) is only available from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to You may contact the helpline at Otherwise, all other queries relating to the position, kindly contact the enquiries person as indicated in the advert. Please ensure that you submit your application before the closing date as no late applications will be considered.

Activities and Responsibilities:

Research Design and Tool Development

• Assist in the development and refinement of research tools (e.g., interview guides, focus group guides, workshop guides), ensuring they are youth- and gender-sensitive.
• Support the translation and localization of research instruments for use in different cultural and linguistic settings in which the study will be in.

Fieldwork Preparation

• Assist in organizing fieldwork logistics such as coordinating interviews, managing schedules, and liaising with local partners.
• Data collection support
• Participate in or observe qualitative data collection (e.g., interviews, focus group discussions) where appropriate, under supervision.
• Engage respectfully and ethically with youth participants, particularly when discussing sensitive SRHR topics.

Data Management and Preliminary Analysis

• Transcribe or code qualitative data, support data cleaning for survey datasets.
• Assist in identifying key themes, patterns, and issues relevant to youth mobility and access to SRHR services.
• Academic writing and dissemination.
• Draft sections of internal reports, policy briefs, or academic papers in collaboration with senior researchers.
• Assist in preparing presentation materials for conferences, seminars, or stakeholder workshops.

Project Coordination and Communication

• Attend regular research team meetings and contribute to collaborative planning and problem-solving.
• Maintain organised project files and contribute to documenting fieldwork processes and challenges.
• Engage in research mentorship activities, such as methods workshops or writing retreats, where available.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Public Health, or related discipline).
• Previous research or fieldwork experience.
• Experience working with communities or participants.
• Knowledge of local language(s) including Zulu, Sotho and other local languages.

Personal Attributes:

• Professionalism, reliability, and integrity.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Flexibility and adaptability to fieldwork conditions.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations.

Remuneration: ZAR per annum

Detailed Description

Job Requirements

Additional Details

How To Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link:

For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email

on

Closing date: 30 September 2025, close of business

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.

Minimum Salary

Maximum Salary

Currency

Amount of Travel

Work At Home

Description
Job Title Research Assistant Location Braamfontein,ZA Organization Name Wits Enterprise Department Description The Research Assistant will support a regional research project focused on understanding the impacts of youth mobility and migration on access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services in Southern Africa. The project explores how internal and cross-border migration, displacement, and patterns of urbanisation influence young people's access to comprehensive SRHR services. Brief Description

Activities And Responsibilities
Research Design and Tool Development

• Assist in the development and refinement of research tools (e.g., interview guides, focus group guides, workshop guides), ensuring they are youth- and gender-sensitive.
• Support the translation and localization of research instruments for use in different cultural and linguistic settings in which the study will be in.

Fieldwork Preparation

• Assist in organizing fieldwork logistics such as coordinating interviews, managing schedules, and liaising with local partners.
• Data collection support
• Participate in or observe qualitative data collection (e.g., interviews, focus group discussions) where appropriate, under supervision.
• Engage respectfully and ethically with youth participants, particularly when discussing sensitive SRHR topics.

Data Management and Preliminary Analysis

• Transcribe or code qualitative data, support data cleaning for survey datasets.
• Assist in identifying key themes, patterns, and issues relevant to youth mobility and access to SRHR services.
• Academic writing and dissemination.
• Draft sections of internal reports, policy briefs, or academic papers in collaboration with senior researchers.
• Assist in preparing presentation materials for conferences, seminars, or stakeholder workshops.

Project Coordination and Communication

• Attend regular research team meetings and contribute to collaborative planning and problem-solving.
• Maintain organised project files and contribute to documenting fieldwork processes and challenges.
• Engage in research mentorship activities, such as methods workshops or writing retreats, where available.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Public Health, or related discipline).
• Previous research or fieldwork experience.
• Experience working with communities or participants.
• Knowledge of local language(s) including Zulu, Sotho and other local languages.

Personal Attributes

• Professionalism, reliability, and integrity.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Flexibility and adaptability to fieldwork conditions.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations.

Remuneration: ZAR per annum
Requirements
Detailed Description Job Requirements Additional Details How To Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link:

For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email

on

Closing date: 30 September 2025, close of business
***The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.***
Minimum Salary Maximum Salary Currency Amount of Travel Work At Home

Project: Unequal Adaptation to Water Insecurity in South African Townships

About the Role

Where: Johannesburg area

When: September–October (8 weeks)

Type: Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

Responsibilities

• Conduct semi-structured interviews with residents, community leaders, and NGOs—focused on water access, non-revenue water (NRW), and sanitation.
• Facilitate 1–2 focus groups to surface coping norms, trust, and practical ideas to improve water services and sanitation.
• Join field walk-alongs in informal settlements to observe daily water/sanitation practices; take careful notes and (where appropriate) photos; deliver short weekly insight memos.
• Handle recruitment, consent, audio recording, transcription/translation, and confidentiality (POPIA-compliant).

Qualifications

• Based in Gauteng; fluent in English plus a local language (e.g., isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana, isiXhosa).
• A university student or recent graduate with knowledge of—or strong interest in—water.

Required Skills

• Outgoing and proactive, with strong note-taking and people skills.
• Reliable, discreet, and safety-minded (transport stipends provided).
• A person with existing networks in Johannesburg area and knowledge of Johannesburg Water pathways.

Pay range and compensation package

Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity.

• South African National Parks (SANParks)

Research Assistant at South African National Parks

• Deadline:

23 September 2025

• Region:

Kimberley, Northern Cape

• Salary:

Paterson Grade B3

• Type of employment:

Full time

Job Description
A vacancy exists within Scientific Services for a Research Assistant stationed in Kimberley Scientific Services.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assist with conducting Research in Arid parks and others.
• Provide guarding and guiding support in the Arid parks.
• Assist with the maintenance of research infrastructures, research sites and equipment.
• Assist with data collection, routine monitoring data, mapping and data capturing.
• Assist with rehabilitation plans and assessment.
• Assisting with report writing.
• Assist with the implementation of the fire management program within the Arid parks.
• Liaison to park management and scientist within SANParks and external scientists.

Qualifications And Requirements

• Matric / Grade 12 certificate.
• An Advanced Certificate in Conservation will be an added advantage.
• Proficient in reading, writing, and communicating effectively in English.
• Knowledge and understanding of veld firefighting practices.
• Competent in using GPS and CyberTracker technologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Excel, and Word.
• A valid Level 1 First Aid Certificate will be advantageous.
• 2 – 5 years of experience participating in field research activities.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Valid Driver's licence.
• Basic computer literacy will be an added advantage.

Please Note:
SANParks is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right not to make an appointment.
How to apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should forward their applications accompanied by the their detailed CV's and copies of qualifications to: with the subject heading: "Research Assistant".

Apply here

Candidates who do not apply via the provided link will not be considered.

Closing Date: 23 September 2025. Candidates who have not been responded to within 14 days of the closing date should consider their applications as unsuccessful.

Keep #NGOJobsBoard thriving: Tell employers you found their listing on Hashtag Nonprofit
More about this vacancy

• Date posted:

11 September 2025

Back to #NGOJobsBoard

We're hiring: Research Assistant (Johannesburg) - Qualitative fieldwork on water & sanitation

Project: Unequal Adaptation to Water Insecurity in South African Townships

Where: Johannesburg area When: September-October (8 weeks) Type: Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

What you'll do (qualitative only)

Conduct semi-structured interviews with residents, community leaders, and NGOs - focused on water access, non-revenue water (NRW), and sanitation.

Facilitate 12 focus groups to surface coping norms, trust, and practical ideas to improve water services and sanitation.

Join field walk-alongs in informal settlements to observe daily water/sanitation practices; take careful notes and (where appropriate) photos; deliver short weekly insight memos.

Handle recruitment, consent, audio recording, transcription/translation, and confidentiality (POPIA-compliant).

You are

Based in Gauteng; fluent in English plus a local language (e.g., isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana, isiXhosa).

A university student or recent graduate with knowledge of - or strong interest in - water

Outgoing and proactive, with strong note-taking and people skills.

Reliable, discreet, and safety-minded (transport stipends provided).

• A person with existing networks in the Johannesburg area and knowledge of Johannesburg Water pathways.

• Agricultural Research and Technology Development.
• Prepare plant and soil samples.
• Keeping store clean and in good condition.
• Maintain Lab equipment.
• Washing of glass ware and prepare them to be used.

• Take initiative in your job.

• Senior Certificate (Grade12).

• Physically fit.
• Ability to be rapidly trained and mentored.
• Driver's license will be an added advantage.
• Client focused & customer service disposition.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously and exercise confidentiality.
• Organizing skills.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Enquiries: Ms. Z Hlam, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 17 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 (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.

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.

• Sort and verify soil samples received against the survey data management database.
• Prepare soil samples for spectral analysis according to the standard operating procedures.
• Package soil samples for international shipping.
• Assist with archiving of soil samples.
• Properly maintain lab equipment.

• Keep a clean lab.

• Grade 12/ Senior Certificate.

• Previous soil laboratory work experience will be an added advantage.
• Attention to detail.
• Good work ethic.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).

Enquiries: Dr NZ Sosibo, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 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 (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.

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.

Research Assistant Africa Youth Portal and Research Project

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Contract: 12-Month Fixed-Term

Reports to: Head of Youth Programmes
Salary: R180,000 R240,000 per annum

About SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent, non-profit public policy think tank dedicated to leveraging rigorous research and policy engagement to advance a well-governed, peaceful, economically sustainable and globally engaged Africa. For over nine decades, SAIIA has been at the forefront of shaping policy debates on Africa's international relations, governance, and economic development. Through its