Hydrobiologist -Vereeniging at Rand Water

Job Advert Summary    

• The overall responsibility of the successful candidate will be the performing basic and specialised analytical testing in the Hydrobiology Laboratory, Biology Section.

Minimum Requirements    

• NQF 7: BSc Environmental Sciences with Aquatic Ecosystem Health or Phycology or Botany with biochemistry as a course
• Two years analytical laboratory experience in algal identification and enumeration.
• Competent to perform algal identification and enumeration using light and fluorescent microscopy.
• Competent to perform basic techniques that are applied in biochemistry laboratory.
• The candidate must be able to work after hours and at other Rand Water sites for extended periods of time.
• Compiled scientific based reports.
• Proven record of statistical evaluation of data using Excel or other statistical software.
• Code 08 driver’s licence.

Primary Duties    

• Performing routine and non-routine analytical analysis on samples received.
• Perform activities associated with the collection of samples for analysis.
• The documentation and checking of results on the identified databases.
• Performance of, and documentation of, all quality control checks of identified analytical tests.
• Checking, identification, documentation and reporting of non-conforming results.
• Undertaking and documentation of maintenance of equipment, instrumentation, biological cultures and test kits and ensure that they are correctly maintained.
• Preparation of media, chemicals, reagents and samples received, for the area of work.
• Perform activities associated with the validation of test methods.
• The adherence to SHE practices and good housekeeping principles in the area of work.

Knowledge    

• Sound theoretical knowledge of phycology.
• Sound knowledge of freshwater algal identification and enumeration and basic biochemistry related laboratory practices.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025.

Skills    

• Skilled in the application of general algal identification and enumeration techniques.
• Skilled in the application of basic biochemistry related techniques.
• Effective report writing and verbal communication skills.
• Application of Excel to statistically evaluate data.
• Computer literacy in Word Processing and spreadsheet applications
• Ability to prioritise, organise and plan

Attitude    

   Self-motivated quality and output driven person who can handle pressure and routine work.

• Ability to interact with staff and customers.
• Team worker but can work independently.
• Conscientious and pays attention to detail.
• Willingness to work after hours, weekends and public holidays.