Job Opportunities

50 New Job Opportunities Open at ARC – Research Support Assistant Vacancies for 2026

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Research Support Assistant Vacancies (X50 Posts). The closing date for applications is 27 February 2026. These contract positions are ideal for individuals who are interested in research work, field activities, and supporting scientific projects that contribute to South Africa’s agricultural development.

If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and being part of meaningful research projects, this opportunity could be a great starting point for you.

About the Agricultural Research Council (ARC)

Agricultural Research Council is one of South Africa’s leading public research institutions. The organisation plays a critical role in agricultural research, innovation, and development. ARC projects help improve food security, farming methods, and sustainable use of natural resources across the country.

By joining ARC, you become part of a team that supports research aimed at improving the lives of farmers, communities, and the broader economy. Even short-term contracts at ARC provide valuable experience that can open doors to future opportunities in research, agriculture, and environmental work.

What the Research Support Assistant Role Is About

The Research Support Assistant position is a junior-level role focused on supporting research teams during fieldwork and project implementation. Successful candidates will assist researchers by carrying out field activities, collecting data, maintaining equipment, and ensuring that research tasks are completed accurately and on time.

This role is well suited for people who are responsible, physically fit, and comfortable working in outdoor environments, sometimes under difficult weather conditions.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

As a Research Support Assistant at ARC, your work will directly support research projects. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Providing regular verbal and written feedback on field activities
Working closely with research staff to help meet project goals and deadlines
Completing assigned tasks accurately and within required timeframes
Maintaining and handling data-collection equipment with care
Using research materials in a cost-effective and responsible manner
Ensuring strict compliance with Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures
Supporting daily field operations and research activities

Your role is important because accurate data collection and proper field support are essential for reliable research results.

Minimum Requirements to Apply

To be considered for these positions, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Grade 12 (Matric) qualification
Good written and verbal communication skills
Ability to perform routine tasks and physically demanding work
Willingness to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions
A strong sense of responsibility, independence, and accuracy

Previous experience working in a research project or research environment will be an added advantage, but it is not compulsory.

Skills and Qualities That Will Help You Succeed

Although this is a junior position, certain skills and personal qualities will help you perform well and stand out:

Ability to follow instructions carefully
Strong attention to detail
Willingness to learn and take responsibility
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Basic problem-solving skills
Physical strength and endurance

Research work often requires patience, accuracy, and consistency, especially during field activities.

Work Conditions and Job Details

Here is a simple overview of what you can expect from this opportunity:

Job Title: Research Support Assistant
Number of Posts: 50
Work Level: Junior
Job Type: Contract
Contract Duration: Less than 6 months
Salary: Market-related
Employment Equity Position: No

Although the contract is short-term, the experience gained can be very valuable for future roles in research, agriculture, and environmental fields.

Employment Equity and Important Information

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and follows the principles of the Employment Equity Act. Preference will be given to designated groups in line with the ARC Employment Equity Plan.

All appointments are subject to:

A positive security clearance
A probation period of six (6) months for permanent appointments (where applicable)

The organisation also reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Documents Required for Application

Applicants must submit a complete application with all required documents. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Your application must include:

A covering letter
A detailed CV
At least three (3) recent, contactable referees
Certified copies of qualifications and certificates
Supporting documents
A certified copy of a valid driver’s licence
A SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications (if applicable)

Make sure all documents are clear and properly certified.

Enquiries

For more information about this position, you can contact:

Mr P N Rakau
Tel: 012 672 9102

Important Dates and Final Notes

Closing Date for Applications: 27 February 2026
Applicants who do not receive a response within four (4) weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.

This Research Support Assistant opportunity is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience in agricultural research and fieldwork. If you meet the requirements and are ready to work hard in a research environment, applying for this ARC opportunity could be a smart move for your career.

Apply Now