Hiring Now | Assistant Artisan Jobs | Upington, Northern Cape | Permanent Government Position Available
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (Chief Directorate: Natural Resources and Disaster Management) is hiring an Assistant Artisan based in Upington, Northern Cape. If you are looking for a stable government job with a guaranteed salary and no experience required, this is your chance to enter the public service and build a long-term career in natural resources and pest control operations.
🌿 Don’t miss this opportunity — applications close 24 April 2026 at 16:00. Apply today.
Assistant Artisan Job Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Assistant Artisan |
| Reference Number | 3/3/1/13/2025 |
| Department | Chief Directorate: Natural Resources and Disaster Management |
| Location | Upington, Northern Cape |
| Industry | Government / Public Service / Agriculture |
| Salary | R163 680 per annum (Level 03) |
| Job Type | Permanent |
| Positions Available | 1 |
| Closing Date | 24 April 2026 at 16:00 |
| Application Status | ✅ Open – Accepting Applications Now |
What Does an Assistant Artisan Do?
Assistant Artisans in the Chief Directorate: Natural Resources and Disaster Management play a vital support role in South Africa’s national effort to monitor and control migratory pests — including blackfly, locusts, and quelea birds — that threaten agricultural productivity. In this role, you will collect and process biological samples, support pest control operations, maintain monitoring sites and equipment, and carry out general maintenance and cleaning duties across departmental facilities and vehicles.
This is a hands-on, outdoor-focused government role that requires physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to follow procedures accurately in a field-based environment. No prior experience is required — making this an excellent entry point into the South African public service.
Key Responsibilities of an Assistant Artisan
Blackfly Larvae Sample Collection
- Collect blackfly larvae samples from rivers and waterways at identified monitoring sites.
- Count collected samples accurately and return them to the river in accordance with standard sampling procedures.
- Maintain and monitor sampling sites to ensure ongoing data integrity and field readiness.
- Record and report sample collection findings to the supervising officer as required.
Migratory Pest Control Support
- Provide operational support in the control of migratory pests including blackfly, locusts, and quelea birds.
- Assist with the loading and offloading of chemicals and pest control equipment at field sites and storage facilities.
- Shake chemicals and fill tanks in preparation for spraying operations in accordance with safety and handling procedures.
- Clean chemical tanks thoroughly after use and ensure equipment is correctly stored and maintained.
Equipment Maintenance & Repair
- Maintain and repair migratory pest control equipment to ensure operational readiness at all times.
- Conduct minor repairs and routine servicing of motorised spraying equipment.
- Assemble and disassemble pump engines for repair and maintenance purposes.
- Report any major equipment defects or failures to the supervisor for escalation to the maintenance team.
Facility & Vehicle Cleaning
- Clean departmental stores, workshops, and vehicles regularly and to the required standard.
- Clean offices, kitchens, and toilet facilities to maintain a hygienic and professional working environment.
- Ensure all cleaning tasks are completed thoroughly and in accordance with departmental housekeeping standards.
Terrain & Grounds Maintenance
- Maintain the departmental terrain by cutting grass, mowing lawns, pruning trees, and watering plants.
- Ensure outdoor areas are neat, safe, and well-maintained at all times.
- Report any grounds maintenance concerns or safety hazards to the supervisor promptly.
Company Values & Culture
- Uphold and actively promote the values and culture of the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
- Adhere to the Public Service Regulations, Procurement Procedures, and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) in all work activities.
- Conduct all duties with respect for cultural diversity, health and safety requirements, and the standards of the South African public service.
Minimum Requirements – Assistant Artisan
To be considered for this Assistant Artisan position, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualifications:
- ABET / Basic Education — minimum requirement
- No formal experience is required — entry-level applicants are welcome to apply
Job-Related Knowledge:
- Knowledge of the Public Service Regulations (advantageous)
- Understanding of procurement procedures (advantageous)
- Awareness of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
- Appreciation of cultural diversity in a public service environment
- Basic health and safety awareness
Skills & Competencies:
- Planning and organising skills
- Good communication skills — written and verbal
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
- Interpretation and listening skills
- Willingness to work extended hours as operational requirements demand
Availability Requirements:
- Must be willing and available to work extended hours as required by field operations
Legal Requirements:
- Valid South African ID Document
Core Values We Look For in an Assistant Artisan
✅ Reliability & Commitment
Government pest control operations run to strict seasonal schedules — particularly during locust and blackfly outbreaks. We value team members who show up, follow through on every task, and take their public service responsibilities seriously.
✅ Attention to Detail
Accurate sample collection, correct chemical handling, and thorough equipment maintenance all require careful attention to detail. A mistake in the field can compromise data integrity or create a safety risk.
✅ Safety Mindset
Working with chemicals, motorised equipment, and in outdoor field environments carries real health and safety risks. All team members are expected to follow safety procedures and wear required PPE without exception.
✅ Teamwork & Communication
Pest control operations are team efforts. The ability to take direction clearly, communicate findings to supervisors, and collaborate with colleagues in the field is essential to success in this role.
✅ Willingness to Grow
The South African public service offers structured career development for employees who show commitment and initiative. Assistant Artisans who perform well are positioned for advancement into more senior operational and technical roles within the department.
Career Growth Opportunities in the Public Service
Starting as an Assistant Artisan in the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is a meaningful entry point into the South African public service. For motivated individuals, progression is available:
- Assistant Artisan (Level 03) → Artisan Aid / General Worker (Level 04–05)
- Artisan Aid → Artisan / Field Technician (Level 06–07)
- Field Technician → Senior Field Officer / Pest Control Supervisor
- Pest Control Supervisor → Natural Resources Officer / Inspector
The public service offers job security, pension benefits, medical aid access, and structured salary progression through the government pay scale.
Frequently Asked Questions – Assistant Artisan Jobs
Do I need any experience to apply for this position? No. This position explicitly states that no experience is required. Applicants with a basic ABET or school education are welcome to apply.
What is the salary for this position? The position is remunerated at R163 680 per annum at government salary Level 03. This is a fixed government salary with structured annual progression.
What does blackfly larvae sample collection involve? Blackfly (Simulium species) are aquatic insects whose larvae attach to rocks and vegetation in fast-flowing rivers. Sample collection involves wading into or sampling from riverbeds, counting larvae at monitoring sites, and recording population data used to inform pest control decisions.
Will I work indoors or outdoors? This role involves both outdoor field work — including river sampling and terrain maintenance — and indoor duties such as cleaning offices, workshops, and stores. Extended outdoor working hours are required during operational periods.
What is the PFMA and why does it apply to this role? The Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) governs how government departments manage public funds and resources. Awareness of the PFMA is relevant because all government employees are expected to handle departmental resources, equipment, and materials in an accountable and transparent manner.
How do I apply for this government position? Applications can be submitted by hand delivery to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002 during office hours, or by email to AArecruit13@nda.gov.za. The closing date is 24 April 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be accepted.
Who do I contact for enquiries? For enquiries about this position, contact Ms Gladys Jaers at Tel: (060) 886 1508.
How to Apply for This Assistant Artisan Job
Ready to start your public service career? Applications close 24 April 2026 at 16:00 — apply now.
👉 Apply for Assistant Artisan Position
Submit your application by hand delivery to: 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
Or apply by email to: AArecruit13@nda.gov.za
Include your CV and certified copies of your identity document and highest educational qualification. Quote reference number 3/3/1/13/2025 in your application.
⚠ Closing date: 24 April 2026 at 16:00 — late applications will NOT be accepted.
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