CHIEF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEER GRADE A

Are you an experienced and highly skilled Agricultural Engineer looking for a leadership role? The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is seeking a Chief Agricultural Engineer to provide strategic oversight and technical expertise in agricultural infrastructure development and resource management.

About the Role

As the Chief Agricultural Engineer, you will be instrumental in developing and implementing agricultural infrastructure specifications, providing crucial technical advice, and managing key engineering projects within the Chief Directorate: Agriculture. This is a senior leadership position with significant impact on sustainable development in the province.

• Reference Number: refs/023180
• Directorate: Chief Directorate: Agriculture
• Number of Posts: 1
• Salary Package: R 1,266,450 Per Annum (all-inclusive, structured according to individual needs)

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities)

• Develop and implement agricultural infrastructure specifications.
• Provide strategic engineering advice and technical oversight for agricultural and rural infrastructure development and sustainable resource programmes.
• Perform final reviews and approvals/audits on new engineering designs.
• Coordinate design efforts and integrate across disciplines to ensure seamless technology integration.
• Manage the execution of maintenance strategies, ensuring optimal operational availability.
• Set engineering maintenance standards, specifications, and service levels.
• Allocate, control, monitor, and report on all resources within the Directorate.
• Compile and manage risk logs according to sound risk management practices.
• Provide technical consulting services on engineering matters to minimize risks.
• Manage and implement knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Oversee funds in compliance with Public Finance Management Act and Treasury Regulations, managing budget allocations effectively.

What You’ll Need (Requirements)

Qualifications & Experience:

• Grade 12 Certificate.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural or Civil Engineering (NQF Level 7).
• Minimum of 6 years post-qualification experience in Agricultural Engineering.
• Compulsory registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) as a Professional Engineer.
• Valid driver’s licence.

Key Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of relevant Public Service Legislation, GDARD, and GPG policies.
• Proficiency in research methodologies and strategic planning.
• Understanding of GPG executive and political structure.
• Ability to create a high-performance culture.
• Excellent programme and project management skills.
• Maintenance skills and knowledge.

How to Apply

Closing Date: 12 August 2025

Please note the following application instructions carefully:

• Online Application (Preferred): Apply directly via the Professional Job Centre website: http://professinaljobcentre.gov.za
• Manual Hand Delivery: You may hand deliver your application to Ground floor, Main entrance, 56 Eloff Street, Umnotho House, Johannesburg.
• Required Documents for Manual Applications:
  • A fully completed, initialled, and signed NEW Z83 Form (obtainable from any Public Service Department or DPSA website). Applications on OLD Z83 forms will NOT be accepted.
  • A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Important Note on Certified Copies: Certified copies of your Identity Document, Grade 12 Certificate, highest required qualifications, and driver’s licence (if applicable) will ONLY be submitted by shortlisted candidates to Human Resources on or before the day of the interview. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.
• Foreign Qualifications: Must be accompanied by an evaluation report issued by SAQA. It is your responsibility to provide this proof.
• General Notes:
  • Ensure you submit your application before the closing date; late applications will not be considered.
  • If applying for more than one post, submit separate applications for each.
  • Due to the high volume of applications, responses may not be immediate. If you do not receive a response within 3 months, please consider your application unsuccessful.
  • The department will not accept applications sent via email or fax.
  • Applicants must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary, or other allegations/investigations.
  • The successful candidate will be subject to security clearance and will be required to sign an employment contract and performance agreement.
  • The Department promotes equity (Race, Gender, and Disability) in the Public Service. Coloured, Indian, and People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
  • The Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process or not to appoint.