Agricultural Advisor Vacancies (X77 Fixed-Term Contract Positions)

Agricultural Advisor Vacancies (X77 Fixed-Term Contract Positions) at Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture – Level 08 Opportunities 2026

Are you a qualified agricultural professional with a passion for farmer support, skills transfer, and rural development? The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is recruiting 77 Agricultural Advisors for 3-year fixed-term contract positions across multiple districts in the province.

These are excellent opportunities for graduates and experienced professionals to play a key role in supporting smallholder and commercial farmers, coordinating agricultural activities, and contributing to food security and economic growth in the Eastern Cape. If you hold an NQF Level 8 qualification in Agriculture, valid SACNASP registration, and a valid driver’s licence, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact in one of South Africa’s most important agricultural provinces.

Job Title: Agricultural Advisor

Number of Posts: 77 (3-year fixed term contract)

Salary: R413 001 per annum (Level 08), plus 37% in lieu of benefits

Closing Date: Applications are open – submit as soon as possible

About the Department of Agriculture in the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is responsible for promoting sustainable agricultural development, supporting farmers, and enhancing food security across the province. Through extension services and advisory support, the department helps farmers improve productivity, adopt best practices, and access markets. Agricultural Advisors are at the forefront of this work, providing practical guidance, coordinating projects, and building strong relationships with farming communities.

Joining the department as an Agricultural Advisor means becoming part of a team that drives rural development and supports the province’s agricultural economy. You will work in a structured public service setting with clear guidelines, opportunities for professional growth, and the satisfaction of contributing to the success of South African farmers.

Job Purpose

To perform an operational technical role for the Department related to Agriculture Development. You will give practical advice to farmers, coordinate agricultural activities, transfer farming skills, and network with key industry players to support sustainable agriculture in the Eastern Cape.

Key Performance Areas

As an Agricultural Advisor, your core duties will include:

• Give practical advice to farmers on crop and livestock production, soil management, and best farming practices.
• Coordination of agricultural activities at local level, including projects, demonstrations, and farmer training sessions.
• Transfer of farming skills by focusing on individual households, farms, feedlots, and abattoirs.
• Undertake newly assigned activities under the guidance of senior staff members.
• Network with key players in the industry such as suppliers, government entities, NGOs, research institutions, commodity organisations, and institutions of higher learning to support farmers.
• Responsible for providing reports of their work to supervisors, whether weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually as required.
• Keep abreast of applicable prescripts, policies, procedures, technologies, and new developments to be able to render an efficient and effective Extension Service.
• Facilitate access to markets, inputs, and financial services for farmers.
• Promote sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices.
• Assist with the implementation of departmental programmes and projects.
• Maintain accurate records and submit regular progress reports.

The role involves extensive fieldwork, travel within districts, and direct interaction with farming communities.

Requirements

• NQF Level 8 qualification in Agriculture as recognised by SAQA.
• Valid compulsory registration with SACNASP (South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions).
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Self-Management, People Management, Change Management, Conflict Management, Customer focus and Responsiveness, Planning and organising, Communication, Presentation and Interpersonal skills.
• Computer literate.
• Knowledge of relevant prescripts applicable to the Public Service.

Relevant experience in agricultural extension or farmer support will be an added advantage.

Competencies and Skills

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Sound planning, organising, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Commitment to farmer development and rural upliftment.
• Professionalism and credibility in stakeholder interactions.

What the Department Offers

• A 3-year fixed-term contract with a competitive salary of R413 001 per annum (Level 08), plus 37% in lieu of benefits.
• Comprehensive public service benefits during the contract period.
• Opportunities for professional development and exposure to large-scale agricultural programmes.
• A structured work environment with clear guidelines and support from senior management.
• The pride of contributing to agricultural development and food security in the Eastern Cape.

The Department is committed to Employment Equity and transformation. Applications from all qualifying candidates are welcome.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online or as per the departmental process. Please use the reference numbers provided for each district.

Enquiries: Mr. N. Mabanga – Tel No: (040) 602 5066 For e-Recruitment Technical Enquiries: erecruitment@drdar.gov.za

Closing Date: Applications are open – submit as soon as possible.

Why Work as an Agricultural Advisor in the Eastern Cape?

Agricultural Advisors play a crucial role in supporting farmers, improving productivity, and driving rural development. In this role, you will gain practical experience in extension services, network with industry stakeholders, and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in one of South Africa’s most important farming provinces. These fixed-term contract positions offer competitive remuneration, professional development, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on food security and economic growth.

With 77 positions available across Amathole, Alfred Nzo, Sarah Baartman, O.R Tambo, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, and other districts, this recruitment drive provides widespread opportunities in the Eastern Cape. If you are passionate about agriculture, farmer support, and rural development, this is an excellent opportunity to serve in the public sector.

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Apply now and become part of the team that supports agricultural development and food security in the Eastern Cape. This is your opportunity to serve with expertise and dedication as an Agricultural Advisor with the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture.

The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and transformation.