Agriculture Careers in South Africa

technicians, extension officers who advise farmers, and the people who run the irrigation, machinery and processing behind the scenes.

There is more than one way in. A university degree in agriculture leads to science, research and advisory work. A three-year diploma at an agricultural training institute (often still called an agricultural college) leads more directly into farm and cellar work. Many diplomas accept Mathematical Literacy — one Western Cape agriculture diploma asks for Maths at level 3 or Maths Literacy at level 4. Degree routes such as viticulture and oenology need Mathematics and Physical Sciences, so check before you pick your Grade 10 subjects.

At school, Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Management Practices and Agricultural Technology give you a head start. Agricultural Sciences can even count as your science subject for some agricultural diplomas.

Some roles are regulated and some are not. Animal health technicians must register with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) before they can practise. Agricultural and animal scientists who work in a consulting capacity must register with SACNASP under the Natural Scientific Professions Act. Many farm and cellar jobs have no council at all.

Training money for this sector comes through AgriSETA — the Agriculture Sector Education Training Authority. It supports learnerships, bursaries, internships, skills programmes and artisan development, with applications open from 1 August to 15 September each year.

Be honest with yourself: much of this work is outdoors and seasonal, with busy times like harvest when long days are normal. If that sounds like your kind of job, browse the agriculture career profiles below for each role’s study routes, school subjects and what’s genuinely known about pay.