Introduction
The Department of Agriculture has announced new Farm Aid vacancies for 2026 under the Directorate: Genetics Resources at Roodeplaat Variety Control in Pretoria, Gauteng. The department is recruiting for three entry-level positions aimed at supporting crop production, farm maintenance, and agricultural infrastructure activities.
These opportunities are important for individuals seeking practical agricultural work experience within the public sector. With no prior work experience required, the positions may benefit unemployed youth and entry-level job seekers interested in farming, crop production, and agricultural operations.
Applicants who meet the minimum educational requirements are encouraged to review the vacancy details carefully and submit applications before the official closing process is completed.
What Is the Department of Agriculture Farm Aid Position?
The Farm Aid position is an entry-level government support role focused on assisting with agricultural production and farm maintenance activities. Employees support daily operations involving crop irrigation, soil preparation, harvesting, infrastructure maintenance, and equipment care.
The role forms part of the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to support agricultural research, crop management, and genetics resource programmes.
Vacancy Overview
| Position | Farm Aid |
|---|---|
| Reference Number | 3/3/1/23/2026 |
| Number of Posts | X3 Posts |
| Directorate | Genetics Resources |
| Salary | R144 024 per annum |
| Salary Level | Level 02 |
| Location | Pretoria (Roodeplaat: Variety Control) |
| Department | Department of Agriculture |
| Experience Required | No experience required |
Purpose of the Position
The Farm Aid role supports agricultural production and farm operations within government agricultural facilities. Workers assist with crop management, irrigation systems, farm infrastructure maintenance, and general operational duties that contribute to effective agricultural productivity.
The position also helps ensure that farming facilities remain clean, safe, and functional.
Minimum Requirements
Educational Qualification
Applicants must have:
- NQF Level 1 or 2 qualification
- ABET Level 2 or 3 certificate or equivalent
Experience Requirement
- No experience is required
This makes the opportunity suitable for entry-level applicants and first-time job seekers.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
The role involves various agricultural and maintenance duties.
Crop Production Support
Farm Aid workers will assist with:
- Irrigation of crops
- Soil preparation and cultivation
- Cleaning and hoeing
- Crop maintenance activities
Chemical Crop Protection
Responsibilities include:
- Applying crop protection chemicals
- Operating a knapsack sprayer safely
Workers may receive operational guidance regarding safety procedures and application methods.
Harvesting and Produce Handling
Duties may include:
- Reaping crops
- Grading produce
- Weighing farm products
- Packing and storage activities
Crop and Orchard Maintenance
Workers may assist with:
- Pruning
- Weeding
- Tending crops
- Maintaining orchards and vineyards
General Farm Maintenance
Additional responsibilities include:
- Cleaning farm facilities
- Disposal of farm waste material
- Loading and off-loading supplies
- Fire prevention and firefighting support
Equipment Maintenance
Employees may assist with:
- Cleaning equipment
- Oiling machinery
- Sharpening tools
- Basic maintenance procedures
Infrastructure Maintenance
The role also involves maintaining:
- Fences
- Shade houses
- Greenhouses
- Irrigation systems
- Water supply systems
Key Features of the Opportunity
- Government agricultural employment opportunity
- Entry-level position
- No previous experience required
- Exposure to practical farming operations
- Opportunity to gain agricultural workplace experience
- Stable annual government salary
Employment Equity Information
According to the vacancy notice, Employment Equity targets include:
- African females
- Persons living with disabilities
The department encourages applications in line with these targets.
Table Summary: Farm Aid Vacancy 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Farm Aid |
| Reference Number | 3/3/1/23/2026 |
| Number of Posts | 3 |
| Salary | R144 024 per annum |
| Qualification Required | NQF Level 1 or 2 |
| Experience Required | None |
| Location | Roodeplaat, Pretoria |
| Industry | Agriculture |
| Application Method | Email or Hand Delivery |
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity may suit:
- Unemployed youth
- Entry-level job seekers
- Individuals interested in agriculture
- Applicants with ABET qualifications
- People seeking government work experience
Candidates with practical farming knowledge may have an added advantage, although prior experience is not mandatory.
How to Apply
Email Applications
Applications can be submitted to:
FArecruit23@nda.gov.za
Hand Delivery Applications
Applications may also be delivered during office hours to:
20 Steve Biko Street
Agriculture Place
Arcadia
Pretoria
0002
Documents Commonly Required
Applicants are generally expected to submit:
- Completed Z83 form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supporting qualifications where applicable
Applicants should ensure documents are clear and complete before submission.
Important Things to Know
No Experience Is Required
The department specifically states that no previous work experience is needed for these positions.
Agricultural Work Can Be Physically Demanding
The role may involve:
- Outdoor work
- Heavy lifting
- Working in varying weather conditions
- Physical farm maintenance activities
Applicants should be prepared for practical and active duties.
Follow Application Instructions Carefully
Incomplete applications or missing documents could affect the application process.
Practical Tips for Applicants
Keep Your CV Simple and Professional
Include:
- Educational background
- Practical skills
- Volunteer work
- Gardening or farming exposure if applicable
Submit Applications Early
Applying early may help avoid:
- Email delivery issues
- Administrative delays
- Last-minute technical problems
Demonstrate Willingness to Learn
Since no experience is required, employers may value:
- Reliability
- Work ethic
- Ability to follow instructions
- Interest in agriculture
Enquiries
For further information, applicants may contact:
Mr BM Maroga
Telephone: (012) 319 6086
Conclusion
The Department of Agriculture Farm Aid Vacancies 2026 provide valuable entry-level employment opportunities for individuals interested in agriculture and farm operations. Based at Roodeplaat Variety Control in Pretoria, these positions offer practical exposure to crop production, irrigation systems, farm maintenance, and agricultural support services.
With no previous work experience required, the opportunity may especially benefit unemployed youth and first-time job seekers looking to gain government workplace experience in the agricultural sector. Applicants are encouraged to prepare complete application documents and apply through the official channels provided by the department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many Farm Aid posts are available?
The department has advertised three Farm Aid posts.
What salary does the position offer?
The salary is R144 024 per annum at Level 02.
Is work experience required?
No. The vacancy specifically states that no experience is required.
What qualifications are needed?
Applicants must have an NQF Level 1 or 2 qualification, ABET Level 2/3 certificate, or equivalent.
Where is the job located?
The positions are based in Pretoria at Roodeplaat Variety Control.
