Auxiliary Services Officer: Research at Department of Agriculture(DOA)

REQUIREMENTS    :    

• Applicants must be in possession of a Grade 10 or equivalent. No previous experience required.

DUTIES    :    

• Perform research specific (according to project plan) activities in respect of research subjects (animals/plants): Taking, processing, packaging of samples. Drying of samples. Determine moisture loss in samples. Safekeeping of research equipment. Preparation of research equipment /facilities. Record data (quality, weight, size, quality etc.
• Perform general maintenance activities in respect of research subjects (animals/plants): Planting, Soil cultivation and preparation e.g. cleaning, houghing, etc. Irrigation of crops. Apply chemical crop protection e.g. operate a knapsack. Reaping, grading, weighing, packing and storage of farm produce. Daily tending of crops/orchards/vineyards e.g. Pruning, weeding etc. Watering of livestock.
• Care for sick livestock. Dipping, vaccination & closing. Assist with calving, lambing, hatching etc. Count livestock. Shepherding, moving, weighing of live stock. Slaughtering, culling. Weighing, milling, mixing of feeds. Feeding. Milking. Cleaning of facilities. Disposal of farm waste material. Provide water supply for livestock and farm buildings. Care for equipment e.g. cleaning, oiling, sharpening etc. Firefighting and prevention.
• Opening of springs, troughs and unblocking of drains. Loading /off-loading. Assist lecturers and students with practical work and work integrated learning: Prepare practical material. Provide hands-on demonstrations to students. Transporting of students to practical sites. Care for student plants/crop/animals during students' holidays. Perform administrative tasks: Updating of registers. Daily record keeping. Keep time sheets on work performed by casuals.