Last Updated: 10 July 2026
The Department of Agriculture has officially announced several employment opportunities as part of Public Service Vacancy Circular 24 of 2026, released by the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) on 10 July 2026. These vacancies provide excellent career opportunities for experienced professionals looking to join the South African Public Service.
Unlike many government vacancies aimed at first-time job seekers, these positions require specialised qualifications and relevant work experience. The available posts include a Campus Manager, Senior Safety Officer, and Senior Driver Operator, each offering competitive government salaries and the stability associated with permanent Public Service employment.
Available Vacancies
1. Campus Manager
Reference Number: 3/3/1/49/2026
Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Salary: R487,197 per annum (Salary Level 09)
Minimum Requirements: Grade 12 (Matric); National Diploma in Administration (NQF Level 6); at least three years of supervisory experience in infrastructure support; knowledge of Public Service Regulations, the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), procurement policies, and human resource administration.
Key Responsibilities: Managing campus infrastructure projects, coordinating maintenance programmes, supervising administrative staff, managing departmental vehicle fleets, overseeing procurement processes, and ensuring facilities remain operational and compliant.
Enquiries: Mr N. Africander, Tel: (021) 809 1625
Apply to: CMrecruit49@nda.gov.za, or hand-deliver to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
EE Target: African Males, Coloured Males, White Females and Persons with disability
2. Senior Safety Officer
Reference Number: 3/3/1/50/2026
Location: Middelburg, Eastern Cape
Salary: R413,001 per annum (Salary Level 08)
Minimum Requirements: National Diploma in Safety Management (NQF Level 6); minimum of two years’ relevant safety management experience; knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety legislation, security procedures, emergency response protocols, and access control systems.
Key Responsibilities: Conducting safety risk assessments, implementing OHS policies, monitoring workplace compliance, coordinating security personnel, managing emergency response procedures, and safeguarding departmental facilities and assets.
Enquiries: Mr Themba Cebani, Tel: (049) 802 6604
Apply to: SSOrecruit50@nda.gov.za, or hand-deliver to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
EE Target: Africans and Persons with disability
3. Senior Driver Operator (Re-advertisement — previous applicants encouraged to reapply)
Reference Number: 3/3/1/51/2026
Location: Modimolle, Limpopo
Salary: R201,093 per annum (Salary Level 04)
Minimum Requirements: Grade 10 (NQF Level 3); five years’ driving, operating, and drilling experience; valid Code EC driver’s licence; valid drilling/operating certificate.
Key Responsibilities: Operating drilling machinery, constructing agricultural boreholes, operating earthmoving equipment, transporting equipment and materials, and maintaining machinery to support agricultural infrastructure projects.
Enquiries: Mr Koos du Plessis, Tel: (012) 846 8535, or Ms P. Tsebe, Tel: (067) 418 8264
Apply to: SDOrecruit51@nda.gov.za, or hand-deliver to 20 Steve Biko Street, Agriculture Place, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0002
EE Target: African Females and Persons with disability
Why Consider a Role at the Department of Agriculture?
The Department of Agriculture plays a role in promoting food security, supporting farmers, protecting natural resources, and strengthening South Africa’s agricultural economy. Permanent Public Service employment in South Africa is generally associated with structured salary progression and long-term job stability — specific benefits such as leave entitlements and pension arrangements will be confirmed as part of your official offer of employment if you are successful.
Employment Equity
The Department is committed to Employment Equity and encourages applications from designated groups. Current equity targets for these specific posts include African Males, African Females, Coloured Males, White Females, and Persons living with disabilities (see individual posts above for specifics). Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee appointment, as equity considerations form part of the selection process.
Important: Requirements Vary by Post
Unlike many general entry-level government clerk positions, these vacancies require specialised qualifications and prior experience — ranging from 2 years (Safety Officer) to 5 years (Driver Operator), plus a National Diploma for two of the three posts. Review the specific requirements for your chosen role carefully before applying, as submitting an application without meeting the advertised requirements is unlikely to result in shortlisting.
How to Apply
- Complete the updated Z83 Application Form — only the latest version will be accepted.
- Prepare a detailed CV including personal details, qualifications, employment history, skills, and contact information.
- Submit your application as a single PDF document (maximum 10 MB) via email or hand delivery, using the correct email address for the specific vacancy.
- Clearly indicate the correct reference number and job title on your application.
Closing Date: 24 July 2026 at 16:00
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using an outdated Z83 form
- Forgetting to sign the application
- Using the wrong reference number
- Sending applications to the wrong email address
- Exceeding the 10 MB attachment limit
- Submitting incomplete CVs
- Applying after the closing date
What Happens After You Apply?
Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete qualification verification, criminal record checks, citizenship verification, employment reference checks, interviews, and security clearance where applicable. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you do not receive communication within three months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous work experience?
Yes. All three advertised positions require relevant work experience, ranging from two to five years depending on the role.
Are these permanent government jobs?
Yes. These are permanent Public Service positions on government salary scales.
Are certified copies of qualifications required when applying?
No. Certified copies are only requested from shortlisted candidates during the recruitment process.
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes. However, you must submit a separate application for each vacancy, using the correct reference number for each one.
What happens if I miss the closing date?
Late applications will not be considered. Ensure your application is submitted before 24 July 2026 at 16:00.
For the complete list of Department of Agriculture vacancies and other posts in this circular, download the official DPSA Circular 24 of 2026.