Scientist (Production Level): Climate Change and Risk Assessment, Ref No. AGR 10/2020 R1

Job Purpose
The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an employment opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to research, assess and supply agricultural risk and disaster information, including risks and incidents relating to climate change, by focusing on the development of new and adaptation of existing production technologies, and to transfer acquired technologies and knowledge, give advice in the interpretation of agricultural risks and climate change predictions and provide strategic guidance to agricultural stakeholders to the benefit of the Western Cape agricultural sector. The successful incumbent must possess a sound research track record and the ability to give strategic advice on agricultural risks pertaining to climate change. This post is stationed in Elsenburg, Stellenbosch.
Minimum Requirements
Science Degree (Bsc) (Hon) in Agriculture or an appropriate 4 year Agricultural Degree; Compulsory registration with the SACNASP as a professional Natural Scientist in Agricultural Sciences; A minimum of 3 years post qualification natural scientific experience in climate change and risk related disciplines; A valid code B driving licence.
Recommendation
An MSc or Ph.D Degree; Sound knowledge and experience on climate change and its role in the agricultural sector, preferably in the Western Cape.
Key Performance Areas
Develop and implement research methodologies, systems and standard operating procedures in risk assessing and climate change (including the identification of gaps in the knowledge base and development of appropriate interventions; Monitoring and evaluation of research projects and performing scientific functions that require interpretation in the absence of an established framework; Providing scientific support and advice on agricultural risks and climate change to agricultural stakeholders); Perform research data analysis: Climate smart agriculture and agricultural risk reduction including leading the implementation of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) to proactively manage and reduce agricultural risks relating to climate change; Leading awareness and capacity building initiatives and leading effective communications and technology transfer relating to Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA), including the implementation of the SmartAgri Plan and its updates, and any other CSA initiatives; Research and development: Scientific leadership in terms of agricultural risk assessment and climate change (including the initiation and management of agri-risk projects with focus on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA), and the identification of agri-risk challenges/ gaps and the prioritisation of research needs through consultation with stakeholders); Human capital development and administrative and related functions.
Competencies
Knowledge of the following: Research Programme and Project Management and its principles (scientific methodologies and data analysis, including Budget Management); Understanding of regulations/policies/prescripts and procedures in government; Ability to do technology transfer to various stakeholder groups; Ability to publish popular publications and scientific papers; Communication (written, verbal and presentation) skills; Proven computer literacy in MS Office; Excellent interpersonal relations; Ability to work under pressure.
Remuneration
Grade A: R 618 732 – R 666 540; Grade B: R 707 451 – R 754 953; Grade C: R 797 670 – R 939 621 (OSD as prescribed) 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
Only applications submitted online will be accepted. Kindly note that this is a re-advertisement, applicants who previously applied must re-apply. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit copies of their documentation for verification purposes. These candidates will be required to attend interviews on a date and time as determined by the department and may also be required to undergo competency assessments/proficiency test. The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department. Kindly note that technical support is only available from Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 16.00. Should you experience any difficulties with your online application you may contact the helpline at 0861 370 202. Please ensure that you submit your application before the closing date as no late applications will be considered.
Attachments (if applicable)