Laboratory Technician (P10): Agriculture at Sol Plaatje University

Purpose 

• We seek to appoint an laboratory technician on a permanent position who will inter alia be responsible for laboratory management, research support and assistance to academics in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Sciences (BAS) in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. The incumbent will be responsible for instrument and equipment management in the Department, procurement, technical support, education and training (practicals), health and safety management to all staff, students and visitors in the research laboratory spaces and the farm. As a technician, the incumbent will also be expected to keep abreast of resource management, personal/professional development, monitoring and evaluation including development of relevant reports. In addition, the incumbent will be expected to participate in other administrative and citizenship activities at Sol Plaatje University as required. The appointee will report to the Head of Department: Biological and Agricultural Sciences and be expected to contribute to the development and growth of the Department.

Minimum Requirements

• B-Tech or Advanced Diploma in Agriculture (or related field) (NQF07)
• Relevant experience in mixed farming (Animal and Crop Production).
• Postgraduate Diploma/Honours will be added as an advantage.
• Two years’ experience related to operation and management of agricultural farm and laboratory activities especially in a tertiary institution.
• Computer literate.

Recommendation

• Relevant experience in support, planning, preparation and setting up laboratory and field practical's
• Evidence of experience in crop, soil and animal science sampling protocols/methods.
• Evidence of equipment used for crop, soil science, animal and agricultural engineering research projects.
• Coordination of practical sessions at undergraduate and undergraduate level.
• Experience in experimental designs and layout in agriculture.

Duties and Responsibility

• To assist the university staff with student practicals at the farm and in the laboratory.
• Collect, prepare and maintain specimens of soil, plant and animal samples for practical classes.
• To assist with the planning and contribute to the day-to-day provision of practical facilities and resources to meet the needs of the curriculum.
• To conduct animal, crop, and soil science experiments at the farm.
• To ensure that crops are grown efficiently and sustainably.
• To monitor the health of livestock animals on the farm and feeding them appropriately.
• Support and assist academic staff and postgraduate students with on-farm and laboratory data collection.
• To carry out technical duties related to the production, storage and processing of agricultural products.
• To manage and maintain agricultural machinery.
• To regularly inspect crop and livestock and maintain records for compliance with regulations.
• Liaise with relevant staff on maintenance of equipment or assume responsibility for the maintenance of equipment.
• Maintenance of service histories and contracts for all equipment/instruments.
• Purchasing of equipment and issuing of equipment.
• Stock control and ordering of consumables.
• Arrange for specified lab waste disposal and deal with gas rentals-related matters.
• Ensure security checks of the laboratory to ensure equipment is secured/protected.
• Install and commission minor laboratory equipment.
• Conduct preparatory work for practicals.
• Supervise Lab Assistants during setting up for practicals.
• To be available in the relevant practical session and to instruct students as directed by the Lecturer.
• Liaise with external stakeholder/s to keep abreast of latest developments and equipment available.
• Compile or assist in the compilation of manuals.
• Ensure that health and safety rules and procedures are followed at all times.
• Assist with the display of health and safety policy and procedures and ensure that they are visible to laboratory users.
• Participate in safety inspections, fire drills, and any other SHE interventions.
• Report all forms of hazards in the laboratory.
• Undertake literature and database searches to increase efficiency in the Laboratory.
• Assist academics with research projects.
• Keep abreast of developments within own field of study and its implications for the teaching/learning situation.
• Keep abreast of developments in professional conduct at SPU.
• Register as a member of professional bodies to keep abreast of all developments (where appropriate).
• Engage in current professional development activities e.g. improve qualifications, ongoing development required by professional body.
• Develop relevant reports as and when required.
• Communicate and consult with relevant stakeholders.

Deadline:18th November,2025