Job Description

The main purpose of this position is to promote sustainable development in the agricultural sector through technology transfer and
application of correct extension principles and methods.
Minimum Requirements
An appropriate 3-year tertiary qualification (National Diploma NQF Level 6 /B-Degree or higher); Compulsory registration with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).No experience required. A valid driving licence (Code B or higher).
Recommendation None.
Key Performance Areas
To assist in rendering general agricultural advice to internal and external clients to ensure sustainable development. Assist in demonstration of farming methods, to ensure efficient utilization resources like soil, water, veld, money and others. Assist in organizing farmers day, 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 programmes and assist with planning, advice, facilitation of training and aftercare. 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 analyzing relevant information to 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.
Competencies
Knowledge, Competencies and skills of the following: Extension Methodology, good communication skills (verbal and written), basic reporting skills, a basic level of public speaking, understanding of group dynamics and the 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.
Remuneration
R 193 359 per annum (Salary level 4) plus 37% in lieu of benefits.
Note on remuneration: Cost-to-employer (CTE) remuneration packages for certain occupation-specific dispensations (OSD),the middle-management service (MMS) and contract positions are inclusive of all costs related to service benefits or obligations including basic salary, 13th cheque, medical assistance,housing assistance,pension-fund contributions, etc.MMS remuneration packages are flexible and may be individually structured as prescribed. Where remuneration is not indicated as CTE, employees' service benefits or obligations are funded or co-funded in terms of the applicable prescripts or collective agreements.
Notes
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit documentation for verification purposes and criminal record vetting. These candidates will be required to do a practical and attend interviews on a date and time determined by the department and may also be required to undergo competency assessments/proficiency tests. The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department.
By applying for this position, you are consenting to the Western Cape Government contacting your previous employers/managers for an employment reference. Reference checks will include enquiries relating to your disciplinary records and reasons for leaving.
Should you experience difficulties with your online application, technical support is available from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 16.00. Contact the helpline at 086 137 0214. For all other queries relating to the position kindly contact the enquiries person as indicated in the advert. Please ensure that you submit your application before the closing date as no late applications will be considered.