SCIENTIFIC TECHNICIAN: PRODUCTION GRADE A – C REF NO: 280926/05 Branch: Water And Sanitation Services Management: NC Cd: Provincial Operations: Northern Cape Dir: Water Resources Management Support Sd: Geohydrological Services)

This position is for a Scientific Technician at Production Grade A to C within the Geohydrological Services sub-directorate of the Department of Water and Sanitation, based in Kimberley and operating under the Northern Cape Provincial Operations. The role sits within the broader Water Resources Management Support directorate and focuses on the technical and scientific aspects of groundwater and geohydrology. As an OSD-graded post, the offer will be determined by the candidate’s proven years of relevant experience. The successful incumbent will work in a geohydrological environment, contributing to the department’s mandate of protecting water resources and ensuring sustainable water management.

To be considered, applicants must hold a National Diploma in Natural Sciences, Water or Groundwater/Geohydrology related sciences, or an equivalent qualification, alongside at least three years of post-qualification technical scientific experience specifically in groundwater. Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Certificated Natural Scientist is required, as is a valid unexpired driver’s licence. The role demands a solid understanding of programme and project management, scientific methodologies and models, research and development, and computer-aided scientific applications. Knowledge of groundwater resources management is essential, as is extensive experience in water management, the environmental field, urban development, agriculture, waste management and mining. Candidates must understand the department’s role and function regarding water quality and water resources protection, be familiar with the National Water Act of 1998 and related policies, strategies and guidelines, and grasp the principles of integrated water resource management. Experience in minimising impacts from industries, agriculture, urban development and mining is also required. Key personal and professional competencies include computer literacy, innovative thinking, negotiation skills, strong written and verbal communication, knowledge of legal compliance, technical report writing, data analysis, scientific presentation, decision making, customer focus and responsiveness, and problem solving.

The duties are broad and technically demanding. The technician will perform technical scientific and geohydrological functions that require interpretation within an established framework, apply operational standards, and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems and procedures. They will identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions, including extending the groundwater monitoring network. Responsibilities include preparing and participating in research activities, collecting data through field surveys, and maintaining, calibrating and operating scientific equipment. The role involves providing geohydrological technical support and advice, developing working relations with the client base and extending that base, and promoting public awareness of scientific activities. The technician must provide technical and scientific data, information and advice, perform technical scientific analysis and regulatory functions, prepare data and undertake routine interpretation, and manage databases and data management processes. They will analyse technical scientific data, disseminate information, and apply appropriate scientific and technical procedures to generate knowledge. Formulating proposals and compiling reports is a core function, as is research and development, continuous professional development, equipment reviews and procurement, and research or literature studies to improve expertise. The post also requires publishing and presenting technical reports and research findings, liaising with relevant bodies and councils on geohydrological matters, supervising technical support and processes, and managing the performance management and development of staff.

This is an equal opportunity employment opportunity. The department will apply the Employment Equity imperatives and the objectives of the Constitution in filling the post, with preference given to equity targets, and women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates will undergo suitability checks, including SAQA verification, reference checks, and criminal and credit checks. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate when shortlisted, and foreign nationals or dual citizenship holders must provide a police clearance from their country of origin. Candidates may be required to complete a financial disclosure form and undergo security clearance. Correspondence is limited to shortlisted candidates, and if no feedback is received within three months of the advertisement, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill the position. Applications must be submitted online, and faxed or late applications will not be accepted.