Company: Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Job Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 21 November 2025
Reference Number: ARC-OVR10/34
Industry: Veterinary / Entomology / Research
Work Level: Skilled
Salary: Market Related
About the Agricultural Research Council
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is South Africa’s premier agricultural research institution, committed to advancing scientific knowledge, innovation, and sustainable practices in agriculture and veterinary sciences.
ARC supports research initiatives that strengthen animal health, food security, and rural development, providing opportunities for skills development, professional growth, and hands-on experience.
The ARC is an equal opportunity employer, promoting diversity and inclusion in alignment with the Employment Equity Act, and actively encourages applications from designated groups.
Position Overview
The ARC’s Veterinary Entomology Division (ARC-OVR) seeks a Research Technician to support ongoing research on insects of veterinary importance, including Black flies, Culicoides, Stomoxys, Tabanid, and Tsetse flies.
This role is based in Pretoria and provides practical exposure to both fieldwork and laboratory research. The successful candidate will assist researchers, maintain insect colonies, support technology transfer activities, and ensure compliance with safety and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Technician will be responsible for:
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Assisting with research on veterinary insect vectors in both field and laboratory settings.
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Supporting the maintenance and administration of the ARC-OVR tsetse fly colony.
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Collecting irradiated blood for bioassays and interpreting results.
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Updating the weekly tsetse colony mortality database accurately.
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Supporting researchers during field trips, including trap deployment and fly collection management.
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Maintaining infrastructure, tools, and laboratory facilities.
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Training interns and providing technical guidance as needed.
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Ensuring strict adherence to safety, GLP, and laboratory protocols.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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National Diploma in Veterinary Technology (minimum).
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B-Tech in Veterinary Technology will be an added advantage.
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Professional registration with the SAVC is compulsory.
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Good interpersonal and communication skills.
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A valid driver’s license is an added advantage.
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Ability to work independently and in team-oriented research environments.
Competencies and Skills
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Strong technical skills in veterinary entomology and laboratory procedures.
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Attention to detail and accuracy in data collection and reporting.
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Capacity to train and mentor interns or junior staff.
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Strong time management and organisational skills.
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Commitment to safety, compliance, and professional conduct.
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Willingness to participate in fieldwork under varying environmental conditions.
Remuneration and Benefits
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Competitive market-related remuneration package aligned with the scope and responsibilities of the position.
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Opportunities for professional development and practical research exposure.
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Permanent appointment subject to a six-month probation period.
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Employment is subject to positive security clearance.
Note: Preference will be given to candidates in accordance with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
Application Process
Applicants must submit the following supporting documents:
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Covering letter outlining motivation for the position.
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Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
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Certified copies of qualifications and supporting documents.
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Copy of driver’s license (if applicable).
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At least three contactable referees.
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SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive a response within four weeks after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful. The ARC reserves the right not to appoint.
For enquiries regarding this position, contact Dr M Taioe at Tel: (012) 529-9185.
Equal Opportunity
The ARC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of employment. Preference will be given to candidates in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
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