Senior Laboratory Assistant (35/04) – DPSA Circ 35
National Department of Agriculture
📝 About the role
The National Department of Agriculture (Directorate: Inspection Services) is hiring a Senior Laboratory Assistant in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role prepares and analyses samples of agricultural products, processed foods and liquor for quality control and keeps the lab running.
✅ Key duties
- Collect, label and prepare samples (fruit, vegetables, grain, processed foods, liquor)
- Prepare media, stains, buffers and reagents and perform basic analyses
- Record results and store, pack or transport samples
- Dispose of used samples and waste safely
- Maintain, verify and calibrate selected equipment and report faults
- Keep laboratories clean and sterilise glassware
- Keep inventories and registers and assist with invoicing
- Comply with health and safety regulations
🎓 Requirements
- Grade 12 certificate
- At least 3 years' relevant experience in laboratory and horticulture
- Knowledge of the Agricultural Product Standards Act and Liquor Products Act
- Knowledge of laboratory quality systems, techniques and safety
- Computer, administrative and organisational skills
- Able to handle hazardous chemicals and work extended hours
- Valid driver's licence and ability to drive
📮 How to apply
Submit a completed Z83 form and detailed CV (one PDF, max 10 MB) by email or hand delivery before 16 October 2026 at 16:00. Submit a separate application for each post. Receipt will not be acknowledged. Hand deliver during office hours to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002, or email SLArecruit86@nda.gov.za.
Email your application to: SLArecruit86@nda.gov.za and use the subject line Application: Senior Laboratory Assistant (35/04) – DPSA Circ 35 (Ref 3/3/1/86/2026).
Hand-deliver or post to: 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 (hand delivery, office hours)
Enquiries: Mr T. Pongolo, Tel (021) 809 1640
Original advert: National Department of Agriculture