Laboratory Technician Zoology Science

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB To facilitate teaching and learning in Zoology at undergraduate and postgraduate level, by maintaining research equipment, boats, and aquarium facilities. KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS Provide technical assistance to students and staff in the department. Provide maintenance and repairs to teaching and research equipment. Managing infrastructure by monitoring, inspecting, and requesting. Inventory control by sourcing and purchasing timeously, and appropriate storage thereof at all times. Manage river and deep-sea boats and trailers. Manage research aquaria. Field support, e.g. student excursions, skipper for research vessels. Provide support for research projects equipment design and manufacture. Supervision of laboratory assistants to maintain effective work output in accordance with departmental requirements. Perform purchasing to meet operational needs in accordance with University policies and procedures. Doing standby duty, and being contactable 24 hours for breakdowns and malfunctioning equipment. Safety, Health, and Environmental compliance in all areas of responsibility. CORE COMPETENCIES Knowledge and experience in maintenance and basic repairs to vehicles, trailers, boats, and outboard motors. Knowledge and experience in the university research and teaching environment (supporting role). Knowledge of animal husbandry and aquarium keeping. Extensive boating knowledge and sea-going experience, with vessel skippering. Working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Good verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy (word processing, spreadsheets, email, internet). Possess good leadership and management skills. REQUIREMENTS Minimum Grade 12 education, or equivalent technical qualification. Minimum 2 5 years work-related experience in an academic or similar environment, in which competency has been gained. Category C boat skippers certification, registered through the South African Maritime Safety Authority. Candidate must possess an unendorsed EB drivers license and be prepared to obtain a Public Drivers permit. Nelson Mandela University reserves the right not to make an appointment. In considering candidates for appointment into the advertised posts, preference will be accorded to persons from a designated group in accordance with the approved Nelson Mandela University Employment Equity Plan.