REF NO: 3/2/1/2026/425
Directorate: Land and Soil Management
SALARY:
R687 879 – R1 035 084 per annum, (The salary will be determined in
accordance with the OSD)
CENTRE: Gauteng (Pretoria)
REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be in possession of a Grade 12 Certificate and a BSc (Hons) Degree in the Natural Sciences / Natural Agricultural Resources (specializing in Soil Science, Botany, Agricultural Science or Ecological Science) or relevant qualification. Compulsory registration with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Professional Natural Scientist. Minimum of 3 years’ post qualification Natural Scientific experience.
Job related knowledge:
Advanced knowledge and understanding of the natural agricultural resources of South Africa, the protection and long-term sustainable use thereof within a set of related systems. Broad knowledge and understanding of national and international natural agricultural resource, sustainable land use and data policies, conventions, legislations, regulations, norms and standards. Broad knowledge and understanding of research, research principles, methodologies and approaches used for natural agricultural resources / sustainable land use. Knowledge of stand -alone, mobile and internet based Geographic Information Systems, applications and tools including the principles, concepts, modelling and software packages used. Knowledge regarding the methodologies / formats used and the application thereof in the development of user requirements, system specifications and test cases. Knowledge to develop and present training courses on the use data, information and systems (including GIS) and the interpretation / limitations and use of available data. Knowledge on effective stakeholder management including leadership, consultation, negotiation and mdevelopment. Knowledge on effective management of personnel, Human Resource matters and assets, this also includes effective project management. Knowledge of relevant computer equipment, hard and software.
Job related skills:
Geo -data collection, verification, analysis and modelling, interpretation, visualisation and publishing with regard to: Land capability, Land suitability, Agricultural potential, Agricultural ecological and land -use zones, Land use systems and practices. Conservation status of the natural agricultural resources. Formulation, interpretation and implementation of related policies, legislation, strategies and standards. Analytical and critical / strategic thinking, monitoring, analysis, report writing, commutations and presentation skills including: Verbal and electronic exchange of information, National as well as international verbal presentations on complex topics, Complex scientific memos and reports, Scientific publications, Governance related motivations and project management. Planning, organisation, execution, maintenance and problem solving pertaining to GIS, research, training and advisory projects. Ability to develop and present training courses on the collection, management and use of geo -referenced data, information and knowledge. Development of user and system requirements, in the absence of established frameworks, based on research and user needs. Ability to manage personnel, knowledge and change. Computer skills. Customer focus and responsiveness. Willingness to work extended hours and to travel. A valid driver’s licence.
DUTIES:
Develop and implement national policy, regulatory, strategic and administrative frameworks / systems to manage the collection, use and preservation of data, information and knowledge required for the planning, management and sustainable use of the natural agricultural resources. Develop relationship and collaborations with Provincial, National, Regional and international counterparts. Provide input and develop policies, legislation, strategies and administrative systems to ensure the collection, analysis, dissemination, use and archiving of data, information and knowledge. Evaluate and monitor the effectiveness, efficiency of and compliance with policies, legislation and administrative systems and guide the setting of scientific standards, specifications and service standards. Provide expert support and advice to stakeholders. Develop and apply scientific / technical methodologies, procedures and standards to ensure the availability and use of geo -referenced data, information and knowledge, monitor the efficiency thereof and evolve with new technology. Develop relationships and collaborations with Provincial, National, Regional and international counterparts. Design scientific methodologies, procedures and standards for and ensure the collection, analysis, dissemination, use and archiving of scientific data and information. Present and exchange scientific data, information and knowledge at national, regional and inter -national forums. Evaluate and monitor the efficiency / impact of methodologies, systems, standards and the accuracy of data and information. Provide expert support and advice to stakeholders. Manage research programmes / projects and conduct research in order to deliver the data, information and knowledge required for the planning, management and sustainable use of the natural agricultural resources. Lead, co -ordinate and conduct basic (fundamental) and applied research. Liaise with relevant bodies / councils on science -related matters. Ensure knowledge generation and dissemination. Formulate and evaluate research proposals. Review scientific reports and publications. Compile research reports, publish and present research findings. Source funding for research projects. Develop human resources effectively and efficiently. Continuous own professional development to keep up with new technologies and procedures. Mentor, train and develop scientists and others to promote skills / knowledge transfer and adherence to sound scientific principles and code of practice. Supervise scientific work and processes. Manage the development and performance of staff.
ENQUIRIES: Ms RL Bosoga Tel No: (012) 319 7686
APPLICATIONS:
can be submitted by post to: Private Bag X833, Pretoria, 0001 or hand delivered during office hours to: 600 Lilian Ngoyi Street (formerly known as Van der Walt Street), Pretoria or to Agriculture Place, 20 Steve Biko (formerly Beatrix) Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0001.