ARC-LNR is Hiring X15 Seasonal Labour
Position Summary
Company: Agricultural Research Council – Tropical & Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC)
Industry: Horticulture / Agriculture
Job Category: Seasonal Labour / General Farm Work
Location: Burgershall, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (5 Months)
Remuneration: Market-Related
EE Position: Yes – Employment Equity Principles Apply
Closing Date: 22 April 2025
Introduction
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC), through its Tropical and Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC) division, is currently seeking to appoint 15 Seasonal Labourers for a fixed-term contract of five (5) months. This is a valuable opportunity for individuals with a passion for agriculture and hands-on farm experience to be part of one of South Africa’s leading agricultural research institutions.
Based in Burgershall, Mpumalanga, these roles are designed to support ongoing horticultural projects and seasonal demands in a region known for its high-value fruit production. If you have practical farming knowledge and are ready to contribute to meaningful agricultural innovation, this position may be for you.
Job Description
As a Seasonal Labourer, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Executing general farm duties as instructed by farm supervisors and management
- Operating and maintaining basic farming tools and equipment provided for daily use
- Assisting in fruit harvesting, crop handling, and orchard management activities
- Performing manual labour tasks in support of field operations
- Complying with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards and procedures
- Working outdoors in various weather conditions to meet agricultural demands
- Supporting farm projects focused on tropical and sub-tropical crops under research
These positions require reliable, hardworking individuals who can work efficiently in a team environment while adhering to safety protocols and quality standards.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for this seasonal opportunity will be someone who is:
- Physically fit and capable of performing manual labour for extended hours
- Experienced or exposed to farm environments, particularly those involving fruit cultivation
- Knowledgeable about basic farm operations, including the safe handling of tools
- Able to follow instructions accurately and work under supervision
- Willing to work in variable weather conditions and flexible hours when required
- A team player with a strong work ethic and positive attitude toward agricultural work
This is a perfect role for individuals looking to gain or expand experience in the agricultural sector, especially in fruit farming.
Role Responsibility
You will be responsible for:
- Supporting orchard and field maintenance under the guidance of farm supervisors
- Performing routine agricultural duties including weeding, pruning, mulching, and fertilizing
- Using simple farm tools such as brush cutters, chainsaws, and hand tools for specific tasks
- Cleaning, organizing, and storing tools and machinery correctly after use
- Maintaining a clean and safe work environment aligned with ARC’s health and safety policies
- Participating in scheduled harvesting operations and post-harvest handling
- Reporting damaged tools or safety risks to management in a timely manner
This role is essential in supporting the operational efficiency of ARC’s research activities during peak agricultural seasons.
Skills & Attributes
Candidates applying for the Seasonal Labourer role should possess the following:
Educational Background & Experience
- Grade 10 or equivalent academic background
- Prior experience in a fruit farming environment (preferred but not essential)
- Familiarity with harvesting methods of tropical or sub-tropical fruits such as avocados, bananas, mangoes, or macadamia nuts
Technical Skills
- Basic understanding of agricultural tools and machinery
- Manual operation skills using brush cutters, shears, or small power tools
- Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks with focus and attention to detail
Soft Skills
- Strong verbal communication abilities
- Dependability and commitment to fulfilling the duration of the contract
- Awareness of personal safety and the safety of others
- Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate in a diverse workforce
Company Culture and Values
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is a government-funded entity responsible for promoting agriculture through innovative research and development. The ARC-TSC division, located in the heart of Mpumalanga’s horticultural belt, focuses on improving the production and quality of tropical and subtropical crops in South Africa.
Working at the ARC means being part of a forward-thinking and inclusive organization that values sustainability, collaboration, and the empowerment of local communities. Through seasonal employment initiatives like this, the ARC also seeks to transfer knowledge, uplift rural economies, and improve the agricultural labour force.
Benefits of Working at ARC
While the contract is temporary, candidates will benefit from:
- Hands-on training in one of South Africa’s most important agricultural research environments
- Opportunity to gain practical farming experience under skilled professionals
- Exposure to scientific agricultural practices and technology
- Competitive remuneration aligned with industry standards
- A supportive work environment that values health, safety, and team collaboration
- Contribution to national agricultural development and food security initiatives
How to Apply
To apply for the Seasonal Labourer (x15) positions, applicants must submit the following:
- A covering letter expressing interest and suitability for the position
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) with three (3) recent contactable references
- Certified copies of academic qualifications and any supporting documentation
- A copy of a valid driver’s license (if applicable)
- If your qualifications are obtained outside of South Africa, a SAQA evaluation report must be included
Send your complete application package to:
Mr MC Khoza
Email: KhozaM@arc.agric.za
Please ensure all documentation is included. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Important Notes
- Closing Date for Applications: 22 April 2025
- Applicants who do not receive a response within four (4) weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful
- The ARC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and preference will be given to designated groups as per the Employment Equity Act
- Permanent appointments are subject to a six (6) month probationary period
- The ARC reserves the right not to appoint if suitable candidates are not found
This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals seeking seasonal agricultural employment in a professional research-driven environment. Whether you’re looking to build on your farming skills, gain experience in the horticulture industry, or be a part of a vital initiative supporting South African agriculture, the Seasonal Labourer role at ARC-TSC in Burgershall offers meaningful short-term employment with long-term learning benefits.
