Senior Agricultural Advisor: Central Karoo needed at Western Cape Government

Job Purpose    

• The Department of Agricultural, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to promote sustainable development in the agricultural sector through the application of the appropriate extension principles and methods. This post is based in Beaufort West.

Minimum Requirements    

• An appropriate 4 year qualification (NQF 8) in Agriculture or equivalent qualification within Agricultural field as recognised by SAQA; Registered with SACNASP or any other recognised professional body (Proof to be submitted); A minimum of 3 years experience in agricultural extension; A valid code B driving licence.

Recommendation    

• Experience in agricultural production; Knowledge of the following: Production of small livestock (sheep and goats), Production of crops produced in the specific areas, also markets and value adding; Conduct practical research.

Key Performance Areas    

• Compilation of project submissions and the management of project implementation; Conduct relevant development of  farmers across all functions which include land reform, infrastructure development project evaluation within the monitoring and evaluation framework; Deliver continuous support to all farmers especially extension and support on production and economic principles, institutional support as well as capacity building of food security; Assist with research and demonstration trials; Provide information on markets; Facilitate workshops and planning sessions to determine the needs and progress; Write reports regarding technical progress; Promote sustainable production system; FaciIitate the development of organisational skills of the developing agricultural sector; Facilitate relevant training as well as to support projects; Participate as the member of the project team by giving sound and technical input for the compilation of business plans; General office administration; Ensure the implementation of Agricultural Information Management System (AIMS); Facilitate, engage and provide inputs to implementing agencies and relevant Commodity Project Allocation Committees (CPAC’s) in the delivery and implementation of projects.

Competencies    

• Knowledge of the following: Production of livestock, alternative crops produced in the specific area ; Project management practices; Land reform programme and project implementation; Following skills: Research; Excellent written and verbal communication; Report writing; Organisational, leadership and supervisory; Conflict management.