Department of Agriculture Hiring Auxiliary Services Officer: Research (No Experience Required)
The Department of Agriculture is inviting applications for the position of Auxiliary Services Officer: Research at the Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI). This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking government jobs in South Africa with minimal entry requirements, as no prior work experience is needed.
Successful candidates will work in research projects involving plants, crops, and livestock, while supporting agricultural training and practical activities.
Auxiliary Services Officer Job Overview
- Position: Auxiliary Services Officer: Research
- Reference Number: 3/3/1/15/2026
- Department: Department of Agriculture
- Directorate: Grootfontein Agricultural Development Institute (GADI)
- Salary: R228 321 per year (Level 05)
- Location: Middelburg, Eastern Cape
- Closing Date: 24 April 2026 at 16:00
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Grade 10 certificate or equivalent qualification
- No previous work experience required
- Basic computer skills
- Basic research skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to work efficiently and independently
- Willingness to work extended hours when required
- Willingness to travel
- Valid driver’s license
This opportunity is ideal for candidates looking to start a career in agricultural research or government services.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will assist with research, farm management, and administrative duties related to agricultural projects.
Research Support Duties
- Collecting, processing, and packaging research samples
- Drying samples and determining moisture loss
- Recording data such as quality, weight, and size
- Safekeeping and preparing research equipment
- Preparing research facilities and materials
Crop and Plant Maintenance
- Planting and soil preparation activities
- Cleaning and cultivating soil
- Irrigating crops
- Applying crop protection chemicals using equipment such as a knapsack sprayer
- Harvesting, grading, weighing, packing, and storing farm produce
- Pruning, weeding, and maintaining orchards and vineyards
Livestock Care Duties
- Watering and feeding livestock
- Monitoring and caring for sick animals
- Assisting with vaccination, dipping, and breeding activities
- Assisting with calving, lambing, and hatching
- Counting, weighing, and moving livestock
- Preparing and mixing animal feed
- Milking livestock and maintaining animal facilities
General Farm and Equipment Maintenance
- Cleaning and maintaining equipment
- Fire prevention and firefighting support
- Opening springs and maintaining water supply systems
- Unblocking drains
- Loading and off-loading materials
- Disposal of farm waste
Student and Training Support
- Assisting lecturers and students with practical agricultural training
- Preparing materials for practical sessions
- Providing demonstrations during training
- Transporting students to practical sites
- Caring for student crops and livestock during holidays
Administrative Duties
- Updating registers and documentation
- Daily record keeping
- Managing timesheets for casual workers
Employment Equity
The position supports the department’s Employment Equity (EE) targets, with preference given to:
- African males
- African females
- White males
- Persons living with disabilities
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted using the following methods:
Hand Delivery:
20 Steve Biko Street
Agriculture Place
Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
(Office hours only)
Email Applications:
ASORrecruit15@nda.gov.za
Enquiries
For further information about the position, contact:
Dr Willem Olivier
Tel: (049) 802 6620
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted before 24 April 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be considered.
