The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (KZNDARD) has officially opened applications for 75 Assistant Agricultural Practitioner positions as part of its 2026 intake. This major public sector recruitment drive offers a rare opportunity for newly qualified agricultural graduates to enter government service with no prior work experience required. KNA Agricultural Practitioner Jobs 2026
These positions are designed to strengthen agricultural extension services across the province, improve food security, support emerging farmers, and promote sustainable rural development. Successful candidates will work directly with farming communities, cooperatives, and agricultural projects, making a measurable impact on livelihoods and local economies.
With a competitive government salary, long-term career prospects, and pensionable employment, this opportunity is especially suited to graduates who are serious about building a stable and meaningful career in the agricultural public service.
Brief Overview of the Opportunity
The Assistant Agricultural Practitioner role is an entry-level extension position within the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government. Appointees will be placed in districts across the province and will support farmers through advisory services, farm visits, training initiatives, and agricultural project support.
Key Position Details
- Employer: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
- Position Title: Assistant Agricultural Practitioner
- Number of Posts: 75
- Employment Type: Government (Public Service)
- Salary: R193,359 per annum
- Benefits: 37% in lieu of service benefits
- Experience Required: None
- Closing Date: 30 January 2026
- Application Form: Z83 (Mandatory)
Why This Opportunity Matters
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of KwaZulu-Natal’s rural economy. By recruiting 75 Assistant Agricultural Practitioners, the department aims to:
- Strengthen farmer support and extension services
- Improve food security at household and community level
- Revive underperforming and inactive agricultural projects
- Promote sustainable and climate-smart farming practices
- Support youth employment and graduate placement in the public sector
For graduates, this is more than just a job. It is a pathway into a long-term, pensionable government career with clear progression opportunities into senior agricultural extension and management roles.
Districts with Open Positions
The 75 posts are distributed across multiple districts in KwaZulu-Natal, ensuring province-wide agricultural support. Applicants from both urban and rural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Districts and Regions Covered
- Zululand District
- King Cetshwayo District
- uMzinyathi District
- uMkhanyakude District
- Amajuba District
- uMgungundlovu District
- iLembe District
- Ugu District
- Harry Gwala District
- uThukela District
- eThekwini Metropolitan Region
Important Note: Candidates should be prepared to travel extensively and conduct farm visits within their assigned district.
Minimum Requirements (No Experience Required)
One of the most attractive aspects of this opportunity is that no prior work experience is required, making it ideal for recent graduates.
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following mandatory requirements:
- A three-year Diploma in Agriculture (NQF Level 6) or higher qualification
- Registration with SACNASP (South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions) – mandatory
- A valid driver’s licence
- Willingness to work in rural areas and conduct regular field visits
Applicants who do not meet these requirements will unfortunately not be considered.
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Competencies
While no experience is required, candidates must demonstrate the foundational skills needed to succeed in an agricultural extension environment.
Core Competencies Include:
- Understanding of agricultural extension principles and practices
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Basic administrative and report-writing ability
- Confidence in speaking to groups and facilitating discussions
- Knowledge of community dynamics and farmer engagement
- Ability to work with diverse agricultural clients and stakeholders
- Willingness to travel frequently and work in the field
These competencies are essential for effective farmer support and successful project implementation.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Assistant Agricultural Practitioner role is a hands–on field-based position, not a desk job. Successful candidates will work closely with farmers, cooperatives, and agricultural projects.
1. Farmer Support and Extension Services
- Provide general farming advice to emerging and small-scale farmers
- Promote modern, sustainable, and environmentally responsible farming practices
- Encourage efficient use of soil, water, veld, and financial resources
2. Farm Visits and Project Support
- Conduct regular farm and project visits
- Use approved visitation tools for monitoring and impact assessment
- Assist in developing basic farm business plans
- Support the revitalisation of struggling or inactive agricultural projects
3. Training and Capacity Building
- Organise farmer days, demonstrations, and information sessions
- Identify farmer training needs and facilitate skills development
- Provide ongoing aftercare and advisory support
- Support household food security initiatives and home garden programmes
4. Cooperatives and Stakeholder Engagement
- Encourage farmers to join cooperatives, associations, and interest groups
- Build working relationships with agricultural stakeholders
- Promote sustainable agricultural production methods
5. Administration, Monitoring, and Reporting
- Maintain farmer registers and extension databases
- Compile monthly and quarterly reports
- Assist with surveys, data collection, and analysis
- Ensure compliance with Public Service regulations and policies
Salary and Benefits Breakdown
Remuneration Package
- Annual Salary: R193,359
- Additional Benefit: 37% in lieu of service benefits
- Employer: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
This package is particularly attractive for entry-level professionals seeking job security, structured career growth, and long-term financial stability through pensionable government employment.
How to Apply for the 2026 Intake
Applicants can choose from several application methods. All applications must include a completed and signed Z83 form.
Option 1: Online Application (Recommended)
Apply via the KwaZulu-Natal e-Recruitment Portal:
www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs
Once submitted online, applications cannot be edited.
Option 2: Email Application
Send your CV and completed Z83 form to:
kznjobssouth@kzndard.gov.za
Option 3: Hand Delivery or Courier
Deliver applications to:
4 Pin Oak Avenue, Hilton, 3245
Option 4: Postal Application
Post applications to:
Private Bag X6005, Hilton, 3245
Important Application Instructions
- Use the official Z83 application form only
- Ensure all documents are signed
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
- Clearly indicate the post you are applying for
Enquiries
For further information, contact:
- Telephone: (033) 343-8133
- Contact Person: Mr NL Ntshangase
Enquiries Closing Date: 23 January 2026
Final Thoughts
The 2026 intake of 75 Assistant Agricultural Practitioners by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development represents one of the most significant entry-level agricultural recruitment opportunities in the province.
With no experience required, a competitive government salary, and the chance to work directly with farming communities, this opportunity is ideal for agricultural graduates who want to build a meaningful and stable career in public service.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early and ensure all requirements are met before the closing date of 30 January 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need work experience to apply?
No. This position does not require any previous work experience.
Is SACNASP registration compulsory?
Yes. Registration with SACNASP is a mandatory requirement.
Can I apply if I live in an urban area?
Yes. Applicants from both urban and rural areas are encouraged to apply.
Is this a permanent position?
The post forms part of the public service and offers long-term, pensionable employment.
What qualification is required?
A three-year Diploma in Agriculture (NQF Level 6) or higher qualification.
When is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 January 2026.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
