State Veterinarian: PCR Procedures/Residues and Toxicology Veterinary Services (Stellenbosch), Ref No. AGR 25/2026

Job Purpose

The Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Government has an opportunity for a suitably qualified and competent individual to oversee PCR and Toxicology diagnostic testing, perform and interpret post-mortem examinations on avian species, ensure compliance with ISO 17025 standards, manage laboratory administration and reporting, and provide accurate diagnostic services and professional support to veterinarians, farmers, and other stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements

An appropriate BVSc/ BVMCh qualification; Registration as a Veterinarian with the S.A Veterinary Council; A minimum of 1 year post-qualification experience; A valid code B driving licence. NB: People with disabilities that restrict driving abilities, but who have reasonable access to transport, may also apply.

Recommendation

None.

Key Performance Areas

Responsible to render a Veterinary Laboratory Diagnostic service; Populate data bases (e.g. LIMS) to provide veterinary statistics for national and international planning; Keep up to date with regard to the applicable prescripts, policies, procedures, technologies and new developments to be able to render an efficient and effective Veterinary Diagnostic laboratory service.

Competencies

Working knowledge of the following: Managing technical personnel, Special interest poultry pathology and disease diagnostics; Interest in molecular biology, toxicology and clinical pathology; Animal diseases especially the macro- and microscopic pathology of diseases (veterinary pathology); Laboratory diagnostics in all disciplines with emphasis on infectious diseases and zoonoses; Advising on control, treatment and prevention of animal diseases diagnosed; Monitor the health of sheep and or chicken flock at the laboratory, including treating sick animals and preventative treatment e.g. vaccinations; Personnel management and supervision for technical staff in laboratory sections; Laboratory information management systems (LIMS); Management skills required for the supervision of the laboratory sections including advice and guidance regarding the purchases of reagents and other requirements, within the allocated budget; Principles of a quality management system based on ISO/IEC 17025; Above average verbal and written communication skills; Computer literacy in Microsoft Office; Organisational skills, practical, precise and ability to work independently and as part of a team; Ability to perform full post mortem examination and to recognize and interpret post mortem lessons.

Remuneration

All-inclusive salary package of R 932 292 per annum (Salary level 11).

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

Shortlisted candidates will be required to attend interviews on a date and time determined by the department and submit documentation for verification purposes and criminal record vetting. All shortlisted candidates shall undertake two pre-entry assessments. One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment. The selection process will be guided by the EE targets of the employing department.

By applying for this position, you are consenting to the Western Cape Government contacting your previous employers/managers for an employment reference. Reference checks will include enquiries relating to your disciplinary records and reasons for leaving.

Should you experience difficulties with your online application, technical support is available from Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 16.00. Contact the helpline at 086 137 0214. For all other queries relating to the position, kindly contact the enquiries person as indicated in the advert. Please ensure that you submit your application before the closing date as no late applications will be considered.

Attachments (if applicable)