DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT: ASSISTANT AGRICULTURAL PRACTITIONER (X75 POSTS)
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT: ASSISTANT AGRICULTURAL PRACTITIONER (X75 POSTS)
PROVINCIAL ADMINISTRATION: KWAZULU-NATAL
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is an equal opportunity, affirmative action
employer and is committed to the promotion of diversity and equity in employment. Women and people
living with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply. The Department of Agriculture and Rural
Development reserves the right not to fill any advertised post. Invited candidates will attend interviews at
their own cost due to budgetary constraints.
APPLICATIONS : Applicants are encouraged to apply for posts through the online e-Recruitment
system at www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs. Applications submitted electronically
will be taken as a final application and may not be amended or supplemented
in any way after the closing date indicated in the advertisement. All applications
must be addressed to the Head of Department and may be hand delivered or
couriered to 4 Pin Oak Avenue, Hilton, 3245. Applications may also be posted
to Private Bag X6005, Hilton, 3245.
Applicants are discouraged from sending
applications through registered mail because the Department will not be
responsible for non-collection of these applications. Applicants may submit
their completed and signed Z83 application forms and CV’s directly to the
following email address: kznjobssouth@kzndard.gov.za
CLOSING DATE : 30 January 2026
NOTE : Applicants using the manual application process must submit their applications
on the prescribed form Z83 (Please use The New Z83 Form which is effective
from 01 January 2021) obtainable from any Public Service Department or at
www.dpsa.gov.za and all applications must be accompanied by a
comprehensive CV. Applicants must ensure that the Z83 application form is
completed in full, duly signed and initialled, as failure to do so may lead to
disqualification of the application during the selection process.
Only shortlisted
candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications and other
related/supporting documents on or before the day of the interview following
the communication from Human Resources. Applicants may also visit any one
of our Designated Online Application Centres (DOACS) where our friendly staff
will assist you with applying online or receiving your hardcopy application. You
can find the list of Designated Online Application Centres (DOACS) at
www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign
qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
No late applications will be accepted. Failure to comply with the above
instructions will result in the disqualification of your application. All shortlisted
candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments.
One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on
the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an
integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. If you have not been contacted within
three (3) months after the closing date of the advertisement, please accept that
your application was unsuccessful.
OTHER POST
POST 01/142 : ASSISTANT AGRICULTURAL PRACTITIONER REF NO: SSC01/2026 (X75 POSTS)
(3-year fixed term contract)
SALARY : R193 359 per annum, (plus 37% in lieu of service benefits)
CENTRES : Zululand District
King Cetshwayo District
uMzinyathi District
uMkhanyakude District
Amajuba District
uMgungundlovu District
ILembe District
uGu District
Harry Gwala District
uThukela District
eThekwini District
REQUIREMENTS : A three-year Diploma in Agriculture (NQF level 06) or higher. Compulsory
registration with SACNASP. No experience required. A valid driver’s licence.
Knowledge, competencies and skills: Knowledge of extension methodology,
good communication skills (verbal and written), basic reporting skills, a basic
level of public speaking, understanding of group dynamics and ability to
communicate with clients and farmers. Applicants must be prepared to
physically visit farmers (farms or projects) within the areas where they will be
placed.
DUTIES : To assist in rendering general agricultural advice to internal and external clients
and to ensure sustainable development. Assist in demonstration of farming
methods, to ensure efficient utilization of resources like soil, water, veld, money,
and others. Assist in organizing farmers day and information sessions etc.
Assist in conducting farm visits and use visitation tools for impact assessment
and the development of farm business plans. Source technical and functional
input from specialists as required by producers. Assist in providing clients with
information concerning financial assistance. To assist in providing technical
support on all agricultural projects, food security initiatives, and land
development support programs, assist with planning, advice, facilitation of
training and after-care.
Assist in identification and mobilize interest groups to
form entities or institution. Assist in organizing meetings to identify training
needs. Assist to facilitate capacity building and provide aftercare. Assist in the
facilitating the development and implementation of business plans. Assist in
the establishment and revival or inactive projects. Assist in establishing and
maintaining home gardens. To assist in promoting a pluralistic approach and
partnerships with relevant agricultural stakeholders and organized agriculture.
Assist in gathering and analysing relevant information, assist with identification
of problems areas and prioritization thereof, e.g. conduct extension surveys.
Assist to facilitate the establishment of cooperatives, farmer’s associations,
interest groups etc. To assist in the promotion of sustainable production of
agricultural products thus working with Agricultural advisors. Facilitate the
identification of real and perceived needs. Establish structures to address the
needs identified. Assist in building capacity of clients in to enable them to fulfil
their own needs. Assist in providing inputs for the implementation of best
practice, technologies, and latest trends. Support the implementation of
programs. Assist in evaluating the success / effectiveness of production
systems. Provide continuous support to ensure sustainable production.
Perform administrative and related functions. Study technological advances
and best practices to enable him / her to perform the extension function
according to the required standards.
Keep relevant database up to date
(including a register of farmers within the area of operation). Compile and
submit monthly and quarterly reports. Comply with the Public Service
prescripts, departmental policies, procedures, technologies, and new
developments to be able to render efficient and effective extension services.
Safe keeping physical assets (where applicable).
ENQUIRIES : Mr NL Ntshangase Tel No: (033) 3438133
