South Africa’s agricultural sector continues to play a critical role in food security, rural development, and economic growth. Now, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is opening doors for 50 Research Support Assistants at its Animal Production division in Irene, Pretoria — and you can apply with just Matric.

If you have Grade 12, enjoy practical work, and want exposure to real agricultural research projects, this opportunity could be your entry into the research and agri-science industry.

Quick Overview

Organisation: Agricultural Research Council (ARC)
Division: ARC – Animal Production (ARC-AP)
Position: Research Support Assistant (X50 Posts)
Reference Number: AP101
Location: Irene, Pretoria
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Salary: Market Related
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12 (Matric)
Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Enquiries: Mr P N Rakau – 012 672 9102

What Does a Research Support Assistant Actually Do?

Many young people see “research” and think it means sitting behind a computer all day. That is not the case here.

This role is field-based and practical.

Core Responsibilities

As a Research Support Assistant, you will:

Provide regular verbal and written feedback on field activities.
Work closely with research personnel to achieve project deliverables.
Ensure accurate and timely completion of assigned tasks.
Maintain data-collection equipment.
Ensure cost-effective use of materials.
Comply with Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures.

In simple terms:

You will assist scientists and researchers in collecting data, managing livestock-related research tasks, maintaining equipment, and ensuring projects run smoothly.

This is hands-on work. It may involve:

Working outdoors.
Handling field equipment.
Supporting livestock research projects.
Recording and reporting research findings.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify, you must have:

Grade 12 (Matric).
Good written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to perform physically demanding work.
Ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
Strong sense of responsibility and accuracy.
Ability to work independently.

Added Advantage

Experience working in a research project or research environment will strengthen your application — but it is not compulsory.

This makes the opportunity accessible to matriculants who are willing to learn and work hard.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for:

Recent matriculants interested in agriculture or science.
Youth seeking entry-level government research jobs in Pretoria.
Individuals planning to study agriculture, animal science, or environmental studies.
Applicants who want practical experience before applying for further studies.
Job seekers looking for contract research support assistant positions in Gauteng.

If you are physically fit, disciplined, and serious about building experience, this role can open serious doors.

Salary and Conditions

The ARC offers:

Market-related salary.
Competitive remuneration aligned with responsibilities.
Appointment subject to positive security clearance.

While it is a contract position, the exposure and experience can significantly increase your long-term career prospects.

Working Environment: What to Expect

You must be prepared for:

Outdoor work.
Physical tasks.
Adverse weather conditions.
Strict safety protocols.
Professional reporting standards.

This is not a desk job. It is structured, disciplined, and performance-based.

If you prefer active, practical work rather than office-based administrative roles, this will suit you.

How to Apply

Applications require:

Updated CV.
Certified copy of Matric certificate.
Certified copy of ID.
Contactable references.

For enquiries:
Mr P N Rakau
Tel: 012 672 9102

Apply before the deadline. Government research roles close strictly on time.

APPLY FOR THE AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL (ARC) RESEARCH SUPPORT ASSISTANTS 2026 HERE

How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare

At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.

Recommended Tools:

Edupstairs Advice

If you are serious about building a long-term career, do not treat this as “just a job.”

Here’s how to approach it strategically:

Prepare a professional CV highlighting responsibility and reliability.
Emphasise teamwork and practical skills.
Mention any agricultural exposure (even family farming).
Be honest about your willingness to work outdoors.
Demonstrate commitment to safety and discipline.

Also:

Use this opportunity to observe researchers. Ask questions. Learn terminology. Understand project management. Build relationships.

That is how you turn a contract into a career.

Career Growth Path After This

One of the most important questions is:

What happens after this contract?

Here are realistic pathways:

Further Studies in Agriculture

After gaining experience, you could pursue:

Diploma in Animal Production
BSc Agriculture
Agricultural Management
Environmental Science

You can explore related study guides on Edupstairs under:

Agricultural learnership opportunities in South Africa
Government research internships for matriculants

Internal ARC Opportunities

If you perform well:

You may qualify for future ARC contracts.
You may apply for research technician roles.
You may transition into junior laboratory assistant roles.

Private Sector Opportunities

Experience at ARC can help you move into:

Agricultural companies.
Livestock production enterprises.
Research data collection roles.
Agri-tech startups.

Experience in a national research body carries weight on your CV.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply with only Matric?

Yes. Grade 12 is the minimum requirement.

Is experience required?

Not mandatory. Experience in research is an added advantage.

Is this a permanent job?

It is a contract position.

Where is the job located?

Irene, Pretoria (Gauteng).

Is the salary fixed?

The package is market-related and competitive.

Is physical fitness important?

Yes. The role involves physically demanding tasks and field work.

CLOSING DATE: 27 FEBRUARY 2026

You can also:

Application Outcome Tracker (anonymous)

No names collected. This helps future applicants understand real-world timelines.

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Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Edupstairs is not affiliated with the Agricultural Research Council. Applicants must verify application procedures directly with ARC and ensure all documents are submitted before the closing date. Late applications are typically not considered.

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY

Edupstairs TrustScore™

100 /100

Verified / Low Risk This is an evidence-based risk assessment to help applicants verify opportunities.

OrganisationAgricultural Research Council (ARC)

SourceOfficial website/career portal

Open source link

Apply viaOnline portal

ReferenceAP101

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Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is Hiring 50 Research Support Assistants 2026 – Apply with Matric