Are you looking for a permanent job opportunity where you can start building valuable laboratory experience? AFGRI is recruiting a Laboratory Assistant for its operations. This opportunity is suitable for candidates who have completed Matric and are eager to learn, as no previous work experience is required.
The successful candidate will receive training and gain practical exposure to laboratory procedures, sample preparation, equipment care, quality control and workplace safety. If you are organised, motivated, detail-oriented and able to work well as part of a team, this could be a valuable opportunity to begin or grow your career in the laboratory and agricultural sectors.
AFGRI Laboratory Assistant Vacancy Overview
Company: AFGRI
Job Title: Laboratory Assistant
Reference Number: AO-2423
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Market Related
Minimum Qualification: Matric
Experience Required: No experience needed – training will be provided
Closing Date: 10 August 2026
About the Laboratory Assistant Position
The Laboratory Assistant will support the laboratory team by preparing samples for analysis and helping to maintain clean, safe and organised work areas. The role involves practical duties such as splitting, milling and drying samples before they are tested.
The successful applicant will also assist with scanning routine samples using NIR instruments, carrying out basic analytical procedures and supporting the management of laboratory samples and waste.
This is a hands-on position that requires accuracy, attention to detail and the ability to follow laboratory procedures. Because laboratory results can depend on the correct preparation and handling of samples, candidates must be careful, responsible and committed to maintaining high quality standards.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As an AFGRI Laboratory Assistant, your responsibilities may include:
- Preparing samples for laboratory analysis
- Splitting, milling and drying samples according to required procedures
- Scanning routine samples using NIR instruments
- Assisting with basic analytical procedures, including moisture determination
- Cleaning and caring for laboratory equipment
- Maintaining sample retention storage areas
- Assisting with the management of the cold room
- Managing general laboratory waste correctly
- Washing laboratory glassware and plastic equipment
- Keeping storage areas clean and organised
- Maintaining high standards of housekeeping
- Following all laboratory quality and safety systems
- Completing additional duties when required
These responsibilities are important because they help ensure that laboratory operations run efficiently and that samples are prepared correctly for accurate testing.
Minimum Requirements
To apply for the AFGRI Laboratory Assistant vacancy, applicants must meet the following minimum requirement:
- Have a Matric certificate
One of the major benefits of this opportunity is that previous work experience is not required. AFGRI has indicated that training will be provided, making the position suitable for unemployed Matric graduates, first-time job seekers and candidates who want to enter the laboratory environment.
Although experience is not compulsory, applicants should be willing to learn and develop practical skills while following workplace procedures.
Skills and Competencies
AFGRI is looking for candidates with the following skills and abilities:
- Good attention to detail
- Accuracy when handling and preparing samples
- Good communication skills
- Planning and organisational abilities
- Good time-management skills
- Ability to work independently when required
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Willingness to learn laboratory procedures
- Ability to follow quality and safety requirements
Knowledge of operating laboratory equipment such as mills and drying ovens may be beneficial. However, candidates should remember that training will be provided for applicants who meet the requirements and are selected for the position.
Personal Qualities AFGRI May Look For
The ideal candidate may demonstrate the following qualities:
- Self-motivated
- Diligent and responsible
- Hardworking
- Assertive
- Innovative
- Reliable
- A positive attitude
- A strong willingness to learn
- Good teamwork skills
Being dependable and able to complete tasks carefully can help candidates succeed in this role.
Why This Opportunity Is Worth Considering
The AFGRI Laboratory Assistant position offers an opportunity to gain practical exposure in a professional laboratory environment. Candidates can develop skills in sample preparation, laboratory housekeeping, equipment care, quality systems and safety procedures.
Because the role is permanent and does not require previous experience, it may be a good starting point for people who want to build a long-term career in laboratory operations, agriculture, food production, quality control or related fields.
The position is also aligned with AFGRI’s Employment Equity Policy. Applications will be considered in line with the company’s employment equity objectives.
Important Application Information
Applicants should submit their applications before the closing date:
Closing Date: 10 August 2026
Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted. Applicants who do not receive feedback within 30 days after the closing date may consider their applications unsuccessful.
Candidates should ensure that their CV is updated and that all information provided during the application process is accurate. It is also important to apply only through official AFGRI recruitment channels and never pay money to apply for a job.
Final Thoughts
The AFGRI Laboratory Assistant Jobs 2026 opportunity is a strong option for Matric candidates who are looking for permanent employment and practical workplace training. With no experience required, successful applicants will have the opportunity to learn important laboratory skills while contributing to quality and safety processes.
If you have Matric, pay attention to detail and are ready to learn, apply before 10 August 2026.
How to Apply
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