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    STATE VETERINARIAN REF NO: SV (X2 POSTS)

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    VETERINARIAN

    STATE VETERINARIAN

    The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) is a key provincial department committed to ensuring food security, sustainable agricultural development, and socio-economic upliftment in the Free State province. As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, the Department aims to foster diversity, inclusivity, and representativity in its workforce. Its strategic mission includes improving rural livelihoods, supporting farmers and agricultural businesses, promoting veterinary health, and conserving natural resources through progressive and science-based practices. The Department plays a vital role in both rural development and public health through its various programs and professional services.

    Job Overview:

    • Job Title: State Veterinarian
    • Company: Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
    • Location: Kroonstad Veterinary Laboratory and Welkom State Vet Office, Free State, South Africa
    • Employment Type: Permanent (On-site)
    • Number of Positions: 2
    • Reference Number: SV
    • Recruiter Name: Mrs. S. Hlekiso
    • Closing Date: 27 June 2025

    Main Purpose of the Job:

    The State Veterinarian is responsible for delivering professional veterinary services in accordance with national and international standards. This includes implementing policies and legislation related to animal health, conducting disease surveillance, managing public outreach initiatives, and ensuring food safety through inspections and certifications. The successful candidate will contribute to both animal health management and public health safety within the Free State province.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Policy and Legislation:

      • Develop, analyse, implement, and audit veterinary-related policies, norms, and standards

      • Stay informed on local and international trends to ensure relevance and effectiveness

      • Ensure the dissemination and monitoring of policy compliance

    • Veterinary Services:

      • Conduct disease surveillance and early warning systems

      • Identify, investigate, and respond to animal disease outbreaks

      • Administer herd health and animal identification programs

      • Issue permits and health certificates for animal movement

      • Design and implement primary animal health care strategies

    • Public Health and Food Safety:

      • Conduct ante- and post-mortem inspections at abattoirs

      • Audit hygiene systems including HACCP and HAS compliance

      • Manage import/export procedures, ensuring international standards are met

      • Inspect and regulate slaughter and sterilization facilities

      • Oversee meat inspection and condemned materials disposal

    • Community Engagement and Outreach:

      • Develop and deliver training and awareness programs for communities and farmers

      • Liaise with animal owners, organized agriculture, and stakeholders

      • Provide veterinary advice and support to rural communities

    • Administrative Duties:

      • Participate in operational planning and budgeting

      • Compile and submit technical and performance reports

      • Ensure accurate data maintenance and compliance with Public Service prescripts

      • Supervise and support Compulsory Community Service veterinarians

    • Professional Development:

      • Stay up to date with veterinary science advancements and technologies

      • Participate in continuous professional development (CPD) activities

      • Engage with national and international veterinary literature and resources

    Qualifications and Requirements:

    Minimum Education:

    • BVSc Degree or equivalent qualification recognized by the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)

    • Valid SAVC registration

    • Valid Driver’s License (Code B)

    Minimum Experience:

    • 1–2 years of post-qualification experience

    Skills and Knowledge:

    • Sound knowledge of veterinary legislation, policies, and international standards

    • Ability to perform epidemiological analysis and disease modeling

    • Competence in HACCP, hygiene auditing, and abattoir inspection protocols

    • Stakeholder communication and community training skills

    • Administrative and operational planning abilities

    • Familiarity with early disease detection and response systems

    • Capacity for policy development, technical writing, and team leadership

    Application Process:

    Applicants must submit their application using the official Z83 form, obtainable from any public service department.

    How to Apply:
    Quoting the reference number, applications must be sent to:
    Mrs. S. Hlekiso
    Private Bag X02, Bloemfontein, 9301
    OR delivered by hand to Room 228, 2nd Floor, Admin Building, Glen
    Email: recruitment@dard.gov.za

    Important Notes:

    • Late or incomplete applications will not be considered

    • Only shortlisted candidates will be required to submit certified copies of qualifications, ID, driver’s license, and transcript of results

    • Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA

    • Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks and security clearance

    • Candidates for SMS (Senior Management Service) posts will complete a technical exercise and attend a competency assessment

    Click here to download the Z83 Form.

    Also See: SAQA Qualification Verification Guide

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