SENIOR LABORATORY TECHNICIAN.3.04

Organization: School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences

FACULTY OF SCIENCE

SCHOOL OF ANIMAL, PLANT & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Senior Laboratory Technician TE.10

 Job Summary:

We seek to appoint a highly motivated and experienced Senior Laboratory Technician to support teaching and research activities within the School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences. The successful candidate will be responsible for the preparation and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate practical laboratory sessions ensuring a safe, efficient and high-quality learning environment.

Minimum Requirements: 

·       BSc Honours Or MTech in Biological Sciences (or related degree)

·       Proven experience in running biology and/or life science teaching laboratories

·       Experience in preparing and coordinating laboratory practicals for large undergraduate classes would be advantageous

·       A valid South African driver?s license

Key Competencies:   

·       Plant identification

·       Microscopy, sample preparation and biological specimen handling

·       Dissection skills and experience

·       Sound organizational and time management skills

·       Good interpersonal and public relations skills

·       Ability to facilitate the work of junior technicians and teaching assistants

·       Good communications skills (E-mail communication & internet search skills)

·       Strong computer literacy

·       Support academic staff in improving/developing practical activities

·       Accuracy and attention to detail

·       Good housekeeping and reporting practices

·       High level of honesty, integrity, and reliability

·       Good administrative and managerial skills

·       Able to work independently and under pressure

·       Able to multi-task and apply good analytical thinking

·       Flexibility to start early and work beyond standard hours is required to support practical laboratory activities when required

Key Performance Areas

·       Practical preparation: preparation of chemical reagents, biological assays and specimens for large student cohorts

·       Supervise junior staff and teaching assistants on laboratory safety, proper laboratory techniques and equipment use

·       Maintenance and compliance with all relevant Occupational Health and Safety standards in the school?s research and teaching facilities

·       Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and servicing of laboratory equipment and machinery

·       Manage and curate the extensive specimen collections and laboratory resources

·       Assist with the preparation of budgets for equipment, consumables and specimens

·       Maintain accurate records, reports, and inventory systems

·       Ensure high standards of laboratory housekeeping and operational efficiency