Job Opportunities: Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (South Africa) – Apply by 27 June 2025

📍 Location: Various towns across the Free State province
🗓️ Closing Date: 27 June 2025
📨 Applications to: Mrs S Hlekiso | Email: recruitment@dard.gov.za

The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is hiring for several critical roles within its veterinary and animal health directorates. The department is committed to employment equity and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates, especially those who will contribute to improved race, gender, and disability representation.

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1. Laboratory Assistant (x2 Posts)

📍 Location: Kroonstad Veterinary Laboratory
💼 Salary: R193 359 per annum (Level 04)
🔖 Reference No: LA

Minimum Requirements:

• Grade 12 or equivalent.
• No experience required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and analyze veterinary samples (e.g., blood, water, soil).
• Assist in staining, media preparation, and bacterial isolations.
• Clean and maintain lab instruments and glassware.
• Support daily care and movement of lab animals.
• Perform basic administrative duties including inventory and data entry.

📞 Enquiries: Ms E Mokhobo at 073 581 9936

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2. Veterinary Public Health Officer (x1 Post)

📍 Location: Sasolburg, Fezile Dabi District
💼 Salary: R397 116 per annum (Level 08)
🔖 Reference No: VPH

Minimum Requirements:

• National Diploma in Environmental Health / Animal Health / Veterinary Public Health.
• 1–2 years post-qualification experience.
• Code EB driver’s license.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect meat hygiene and food safety at abattoirs and game harvesting facilities.
• Conduct audits for export facilities and meat safety.
• Collect disease surveillance samples (BSE, bacteriology, residues).
• Provide food safety education to communities.
• Monitor compliance with national and international food legislation.

📞 Enquiries: Dr M Mundia at 066 025 457

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3. Animal Health Technician (x3 Posts)

📍 Locations:

• Xhariep District (Koffiefontein)
• Mangaung Metro (Botshabelo)
• Thabo Mofutsanyana District (Warden)
  💼 Salary: R397 116 per annum (Level 08)
  🔖 Reference No: AHT

Minimum Requirements:

• National Diploma in Animal Health.
• Registered with the South African Veterinary Council.
• Code 08 (EB) driver’s license.
• 1–2 years’ experience post qualification.

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement disease control measures and vaccinations.
• Inspect and collect samples from livestock.
• Assist State Veterinarians with disease surveillance and enforcement.
• Educate communities on animal health and production.
• Conduct roadblocks and auction inspections.

📞 Enquiries:

• Xhariep: Ms M Dlanga at 072 711 1809
• Mangaung: Dr J J Barnard at 066 025 2229

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4. Veterinary Technologist (x2 Posts)

📍 Locations:

• Bloemfontein Veterinary Laboratory
• Kroonstad Veterinary Laboratory
  💼 Salary: R397 116 per annum (Level 08)
  🔖 Reference No: VET

Minimum Requirements:

• National Diploma in Veterinary Technology.
• Registered with the South African Veterinary Council.
• Valid driver’s license.
• 1–2 years post-qualification experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct veterinary laboratory diagnostic testing.
• Manage and verify diagnostic data and reports.
• Maintain lab equipment and SOPs.
• Supervise staff, control stock, and maintain compliance with national standards.

📞 Enquiries: Dr H Bester-Cloete at 066 025 1955

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5. State Veterinarian (x2 Posts)

📍 Locations:

• Kroonstad Veterinary Laboratory
• Welkom State Vet Office
  💼 Salary: R896 436 per annum (Level 11, inclusive of benefits)
  🔖 Reference No: SV

Minimum Requirements:

• BVSc Degree (or equivalent) registered with the South African Veterinary Council.
• Valid code B driver’s license.
• 1–2 years’ post-qualification experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and audit veterinary policies and standards.
• Manage animal disease surveillance and permit issuance.
• Oversee herd health programs and early disease warning systems.
• Perform post mortems and risk assessments.
• Train staff and advise communities on animal health and food safety.

📞 Enquiries: Dr J J Barnard at 066 025 2229

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📝 How to Apply

Application Instructions:

• Submit applications using the Z.83 form, available at any Public Service Department.
• Attach a detailed CV. Only shortlisted candidates will submit certified documents.
• Email or hand-deliver to:
  📬 Mrs S Hlekiso, Private Bag X02, Bloemfontein, 9301
  🏢 Room 228, 2nd Floor, Admin Building, Glen
  📧 Email: recruitment@dard.gov.za

🛑 Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

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⚖️ Employment Equity and Compliance

This is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to candidates who enhance representativity as per the Employment Equity Act. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks and SMS-level applicants will undergo competency assessments.

If you do not receive feedback within 4 months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.