Categories: Job Opportunities

Research Support Assistant x50: Rangeland and Forage Science – ARC (Gauteng)

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is inviting applications for 50 Research Support Assistant positions within the Rangeland and Forage Science division. These contract roles are based at ARC-Animal Production (ARC-AP).

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with Grade 12 who are interested in gaining hands-on experience in agricultural research and fieldwork. If you are physically fit, detail-oriented, and ready to work in a research environment, this position may be ideal for you.

Position Details

Job Title: Research Support Assistant: Rangeland and Forage Science
Reference Number: AP101
Location: Gauteng
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Number of Positions: 50
Salary: Market Related
Closing Date: 09 March 2026

About the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)

The Agricultural Research Council is a leading South African research institution dedicated to agricultural innovation, food security, and sustainable development. Through its Animal Production division, ARC-AP conducts vital research to improve livestock production systems, pasture management, and forage science across the country.

These Research Support Assistant positions form part of ARC’s commitment to advancing agricultural research while creating employment opportunities in Gauteng.

Purpose of the Role

The Research Support Assistant will support research personnel in the field and ensure accurate data collection, proper equipment maintenance, and compliance with occupational health and safety standards. The role involves routine and physically demanding work, often in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates who are comfortable working outdoors and contributing to scientific research projects.

Key Responsibilities

Successful candidates will be required to:

Provide regular verbal and written feedback on field activities
Work closely with research personnel to assist in achieving project deliverables
Ensure accurate and timely completion of assigned tasks
Maintain data-collection equipment and ensure cost-effective use of materials
Ensure visible compliance with Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures

The position requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently while supporting a larger research team.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for the Research Support Assistant role, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Grade 12 (Matric)
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to perform routine and physically demanding work
Ability to work in adverse weather conditions
Strong sense of responsibility and accuracy
Ability to work independently

Important: A driver’s license is NOT a requirement for this position.

Candidates with previous experience working in a research project or research environment will have an added advantage.

Important Notes for Applicants

Applicants who have already applied must NOT re-apply.
The closing date for applications is 09 March 2026.
The appointment is subject to a positive security clearance.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Applicants who do not receive a response within four (4) weeks after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Permanent appointments are subject to a six (6) month probation period.
The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

Employment Equity

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to the Employment Equity Act. Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.

Application Requirements

Applications must include:

A covering letter
A detailed CV
At least three (3) recent contactable referees
Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents
Copy of driver’s license (if available)
SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications

Ensure that all required documents are attached, as incomplete applications will not be considered.

Why Apply?

With 50 positions available, this is a significant employment opportunity in Gauteng’s agricultural research sector. The role offers practical experience in rangeland and forage science, exposure to professional researchers, and a competitive market-related salary.

If you are looking to gain valuable field experience in agricultural research and contribute to projects that support South Africa’s farming sector, apply before 09 March 2026.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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