ASSISTANT AGRICULTURAL PRACTITIONER

ASSISTANT AGRICULTURAL PRACTITIONER

(3-Year Fixed-Term Contract)

REFERENCE NUMBER: SSC01/2026 (X75 Posts)
SALARY: R193 359 per annum, plus 37% in lieu of service benefits
DEPARTMENT: Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA)

CENTRES / PLACEMENT AREAS:

• Zululand District

• King Cetshwayo District

• uMzinyathi District

• uMkhanyakude District

• Amajuba District

• uMgungundlovu District

• ILembe District

• Ugu District

• Harry Gwala District

• uThukela District

• eThekwini District

PURPOSE OF THE POST

The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for appointment to the position of Assistant Agricultural Practitioner on a three-year fixed-term contract.

The successful candidates will assist in providing agricultural extension and advisory services to farmers, producers, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable agricultural development, food security, and effective utilization of natural and financial resources within the respective districts.

REQUIREMENTS

• A three-year Diploma in Agriculture (NQF Level 6) or a higher relevant qualification.

• Compulsory registration with SACNASP (South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions).

• No prior work experience required.

• A valid driver’s licence.

• Willingness and ability to physically visit farmers, farms, and agricultural projects within the area of placement.

KNOWLEDGE, COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS

• Knowledge of agricultural extension methodologies.

• Good verbal and written communication skills.

• Basic report writing and reporting skills.

• Basic public speaking ability.

• Understanding of group dynamics.

• Ability to communicate effectively with farmers, clients, and stakeholders.

• Willingness to work in rural and field-based environments.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidates will be required to perform the following duties, under supervision and guidance:

• Assist in rendering general agricultural advice to internal and external clients to support sustainable agricultural development.

• Assist in the demonstration of farming methods to ensure effective utilization of resources such as soil, water, veld, finances, and other inputs.

• Assist in organizing farmers’ days, information sessions, and awareness programmes.

• Conduct farm visits and utilize visitation tools for impact assessment and the development of farm business plans.

• Source technical and functional input from agricultural specialists as required by producers.

• Assist in providing clients with information related to financial assistance and support programmes.

• Provide technical support to agricultural projects, food security initiatives, and land development support programmes.

• Assist with planning, facilitation of training, advisory services, and after-care support.

• Assist in identifying and mobilizing interest groups to form entities, cooperatives, or institutions.

• Assist in organizing meetings to identify training needs and facilitate capacity-building initiatives.

• Support the facilitation of the development and implementation of business plans.

• Assist in the establishment, revival, and sustainability of inactive or underperforming agricultural projects.

• Assist in establishing and maintaining home gardens.

• Promote a pluralistic approach and partnerships with agricultural stakeholders and organized agriculture.

• Gather and analyze relevant information, identify problem areas, and assist in prioritization through extension surveys and assessments.

• Assist in facilitating the establishment of cooperatives, farmer associations, and interest groups.

• Support sustainable agricultural production by working closely with Agricultural Advisors.

• Assist in identifying real and perceived needs of clients and establishing structures to address those needs.

• Contribute inputs towards the implementation of best practices, modern technologies, and latest agricultural trends.

• Assist in monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of production systems and agricultural interventions.

• Provide continuous support to ensure sustainable agricultural production.

• Perform administrative and related functions, including record keeping and data management.

• Maintain and update relevant databases, including registers of farmers within the area of operation.

• Compile and submit monthly and quarterly reports.

• Ensure compliance with Public Service prescripts, departmental policies, procedures, and new developments.

• Safeguard physical assets where applicable.

ENQUIRIES

For further information, please contact:
Mr N.L. Ntshangase
Tel: (033) 343 8133

APPLICATIONS

Applicants are encouraged to apply using one method only, as follows:

• Online via the KZN e-Recruitment System:
  www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs

• Email Z83 form and CV to:
  kznjobs@kznedtea.gov.za

• Submit applications at any Designated Online Application Centre (DOAC), where assistance is provided.
  (DOAC list available at www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs)

Alternatively, applications may be:

• Posted to:
  Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs
  Private Bag X9152
  Pietermaritzburg, 3200

• Hand delivered to:
  Ground Floor, 270 Jabu Ndlovu Street
  Pietermaritzburg, 3201
  (Vacancy box – Attention: Ms Nondumiso Buthelezi / Mr Sipho Zangwa)

CLOSING DATE

30 January 2026 at 16h00
Late applications will not be considered.