Laser Technician Intern at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About the job: 

• The CSIR has a vacancy for Laser Technician Intern in the Manufacturing Cluster. Position is the the Photonics Research Centres National Programs group, which manages a portfolio of national programs to support research and development projects in the field of photonics, photonics applications and additive manufacturing.
• One of these programs is the Laser Rental Pool program which places laser and associated equipment at local university to support approved research projects at these institutions.
• This position will support the placement and maintenance of equipment associated with this program. The position will be based at the CSIR campus in Pretoria, but travel to local universities to maintain equipment is a requirement for this position. 
• This position reports to the Senior Laser Technologist in the National Programs group.

Key responsibilities:

Technical Support

• Assist in installation, setup, and calibration of laser systems.
• Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance of laser equipment.
• Assist in troubleshooting laser system faults and component failures.
• Prepare optical components and align optical systems under supervision.

Research Support

• Support experimental setups for photonics and laser-based research projects.
• Assist with data collection, recording, and basic analysis of experimental results.
• Document experimental procedures and technical findings.

Laboratory Support

• Maintain laboratory equipment and tools.
• Ensure laboratory cleanliness and organisation.
• Support inventory control of laser components and consumables.
• Maintain equipment service records.

Safety and Compliance

• Adhere to laser safety standards and laboratory procedures.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Support hazard identification and risk control activities.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• National Diploma in Industrial Physics (Photonics)
• No prior experience required. Practical exposure to laboratory or technical environments will be advantageous.
• Basic knowledge of laser or optical systems
• Technical problem-solving ability
• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy (MS Office)
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Strong commitment to safety

Whats in it for you? 

The CSIR offers:

• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards                                                                   

Closing date: 15 April 2026