Research Technician Shared Support at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Co-ordinates and executes field trials, by compiling and executing technical activity plans. 
• Identifies the need for human resources and manages the allocated resources. 
• Plans and co-ordinates own and the supervised employees in the shared support R&D unit work. 
• Independently conducts specialist research/technical support, diagnostics, and other services within the unit. 
• Manage allocated facilities, fields, material and equipment and ensure optimal utilization of resources.
• Collects and captures, processes and interprets technical data and makes internal recommendations. 
• Compiles detailed technical reports and submits to project managers and/or relevant managers. 
• Recommends new technologies to be optimized. 
• Develops technical capacity at an appropriate level. 
• Identifies and participates in own learning opportunities. 
• Assists with identifying new business opportunities. 
• Assists with compiling & managing allocated budgets. 
• Participate in transfer of technology and promotion in the form of presentations, posters, workshops, training, products, services, literature, information days, courses and other events.

Requirements

• BSc or Advance Diploma (NQF 7) in Horticulture / Plant Production or related field, plus 2 years applicable experience.
• Agricultural research knowledge, skills and experience.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under open-field conditions.
• Experience and good understanding of weed control, soil cultivation methods, fertilization, spraying for disease and pest control, irrigation systems, soil health and sustainable field management.
• Experience in vegetable production.
• Experience and good understanding of potato, sweet potato, cotton, hemp and medicinal plant production will be an added advantage. 
• Practical skills such as small repairs on irrigation system, tools and implements will be an added advantage.
• Experience in managing people, with management of larger teams (15 plus people) will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Advanced Computer literacy.
• Valid driver’s license.