Senior Research Technician: Agricultural Mechanization

• Co-ordinates project plan with the RTM related to agricultural mechanisation and agro-processing engineering.
• Compiles detailed reports and presents results to clients.
• Optimises, implements and makes recommendation on agricultural mechanisation and agro-processing technologies.
• Initiates, manages, co-ordinates and implements technical activities, support and technology transfer for research projects in compliance with scientific parameters/standards, ensuring the strategic management of resources and the successful completion of projects.
• Plans and co-ordinates technical projects.
• Ensures optimal utilisation of resources.
• Responsible for strategic planning of future resources.
• Performs advanced analysis, interpretation and makes internal and external recommendations.
• Complies detailed reports, provides comprehensive recommendations and approves final Reports.
• Undertake the development of new research projects which include proper planning, design and implementation.
• Monitoring and evaluation of research and technology development projects, and maintenance of scientific quality standards in agricultural mechanisation and agro processing engineering aspects.
• Evaluate research needs, develop, plan and conduct research projects
• Optimally utilise and supervise human resources allocated to relevant projects.

• MTech Degree (equivalent NQF9) in Mechanical Engineering with 3 years’ experience,
  
  B. Tech Degree (equivalent NQF7) with 4 years’ experience or National Diploma (equivalent NQF6) with 5 years’ experience in agricultural mechanisation and agro processing engineering related works.
• Ability to work with communities and conduct fieldwork.
• Willingness to travel away from home for intermediate periods.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal).
• The successful applicant needs to be in possession of a valid driver’s license (code 8/EB) as the position requires traveling.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Verbal communication skills.
• Confidentiality.
• Attention to detail

Enquiries:
Dr S Sibanda, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 19 FEBRUARY 2026

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint