Assistant Agricultural Practitioner – 75 Open Posts in KwaZulu‑Natal
If you love plants, farms and helping people grow food, you might want to read about a job that can turn that passion into a career. The KwaZulu‑Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KZNDARD) has announced 75 new Assistant Agricultural Practitioner positions spread all over the province. These roles are a great start for anyone who finished a diploma in agriculture or a related field and wants a steady job in the public sector while working on real projects that support food security and rural communities.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Employer | KwaZulu‑Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development |
| Position | Assistant Agricultural Practitioner |
| Number of posts | 75 |
| Salary | R193,359 per year |
| Extra benefit | 37 % in lieu of service benefits |
| Experience | None required |
| Closing date | 30 January 2026 |
| Qualification | Diploma in Agriculture (NQF 6) or higher |
| Registration | Must be registered with SACNASP |
| Employment type | Government (public service) |
| Application form | Z83 (mandatory) |
Where the Jobs Are Located
These positions cover the whole province, so you can find a role near where you live – whether that’s a small town or a city. The districts include:
- Zululand
- King Cetshwayo
- uMzinyathi
- uMkhanyakude
- Amajuba
- uMgungundlovu
- iLembe
- Ugu
- Harry Gwala
- uThukela
- eThekwini
You’ll be expected to travel to farms and projects in your assigned district, so a valid driver’s licence is a must.
What You Need to Apply
- Three‑year Diploma in Agriculture or higher (NQF Level 6)
- SACNASP registration (this is compulsory)
- Valid driver’s licence
- No previous work experience is needed – the job is open to fresh graduates.
What the Role Looks Like
This is a hands‑on job, not a desk job. Your main job is to help farmers and farms thrive.
- Farm visits: Go out to farms to see how things are working and give advice on better practices.
- Advice and support: Offer general farming guidance, show modern and sustainable techniques, and help farmers use soil, water, and money wisely.
- Training: Organise “Farmer Days” and other sessions to teach skills, and keep supporting farmers after the training is over.
- Business help: Work with farmers to build business plans and get struggling projects back on track.
- Community work: Bring farmers together into groups and cooperatives, and help them work with other stakeholders.
- Reporting: Keep records, write reports and help with surveys, and follow public service rules.
You’ll be part of a team that looks after the health of farms and the communities that depend on them. Because the job is public‑sector, it also gives a clear path to higher roles such as Senior Extension Officer, Project Manager, or even a policy specialist.
Salary and Benefits
- Base pay: R193,359 a year.
- Plus: A 37 % extra in lieu of service benefits.
- Stability: As a government job, it comes with pension and a clear career ladder.
How to Apply
Option 1 – Online (recommended)
Go to the KwaZulu‑Natal e‑Recruitment portal.
Apply here: www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs
Once you submit online, you can’t change the application.
Option 2 – Email
Send your completed Z83 form and CV to kznjobssouth@kzndard.gov.za
Option 3 – Hand‑delivery or courier
Drop your paperwork at 4 Pin Oak Avenue, Hilton, 3245
Option 4 – By post
Send to Private Bag X6005, Hilton, 3245
If you have questions
Call or text Mr NL Ntshangase at (033) 343 8133
How Edupstairs Can Help
Edupstairs is a site that shares job news and tips. We don’t run the job, but we can help you get it.
- Keep your SACNASP registration active.
- Show your farm work and community projects.
- Highlight your communication skills.
- Use a clear CV that shows you know about agriculture and extension work.
Future Steps
If you start as an Assistant Agricultural Practitioner, you can grow into roles like:
- Agricultural Practitioner
- Senior Extension Officer
- Agricultural Advisor
- Project Manager (Agriculture)
- Policy & Rural Development Specialist
The public sector has a set way of promoting people and giving more learning opportunities.
Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not part of the KwaZulu‑Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. The information in this post is for learning purposes only. Check the official KZN government website to confirm details before you apply or share personal data. This job is a real opportunity; it is low‑risk, and the source is the government’s own site (SETA/Government). Reference number for the posts: SSC01/2026.
