Overview
Chief Research Technician/Genebank Manager : Plant Improvement Jobs in Mbombela, South Africa at The Agricultural Research Council
Position: CHIEF RESEARCH TECHNICIAN (GENEBANK MANAGER) : PLANT IMPROVEMENT
Location: Mbombela
Job Description
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all field and nursery gene bank blocks at ARC research farms located in Nelspruit, Hluhluwe, Addo, Levubu, Ncera, and Bienne Donne, with support at remote stations. Key duties include:
Coordinating management of gene bank blocks with the team and support services.
Managing project budgets for gene bank projects, ensuring effective resource allocation of funds and labor.
Compiling monthly internal progress reports and quarterly external reports for funders, including written reports and presentations.
Maintaining and updating the gene bank database for all crops managed at TSC.
Traveling independently to remote stations regularly to oversee gene bank management.
Identifying research opportunities and implementing improved gene bank management technologies.
Supervising Research Technicians and Research Support Assistants.
Communicating effectively with Researchers, Research Support Assistants, and Farm Managers regarding daily activities.
Liaising with growers, industry technical officers, and government agencies at national and provincial levels.
Writing scientific and popular publications and presenting research outcomes relevant to subtropical fruit growers and the scientific community.
Requirements
Master’s or MTech degree (NQF7) in plant production, horticulture, or agronomy, with proven ability to manage farm and research blocks.
At least 8 years of relevant post-qualification experience in crop management and production.
Knowledge of crop production, horticulture, farm management, irrigation, and pest management.
Basic project and financial management skills.
Experience in national-level collaboration.
Strategic and operational planning skills and expertise.
Registration with a professional scientific body is an advantage.
Advanced computer literacy.
Valid EB driver’s license and proven driving ability.
Closing Date for Applications: 15 May 2025
A competitive remuneration package will be offered, commensurate with responsibilities and position stature. The appointment is subject to security clearance, competency, and leadership assessments.
Preference will be given to designated groups according to the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The ARC is an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity principles.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, detailed CV with at least three recent contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, and a copy of their driver’s license. Foreign qualifications require a SAQA evaluation report. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants not contacted within four weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to a six-month probation period.
The organization reserves the right not to appoint.
Additional Information
Job Type: Permanent
Market Related
EE Position
Location:
Various ARC research farms
Required Experience:
Senior level
Key Skills #J-18808-Ljbffr
Title: Chief Research Technician/Genebank Manager : Plant Improvement
Company: The Agricultural Research Council
Location: Mbombela, South Africa
Category: Research/Development (Research Scientist)
