Mobile Laboratory Technician - Department of Civil Engineering (4-Year Contract) at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The role will be responsible to assist the Mobile Laboratory Coordinator with the day-to-day operations of the mobile soils laboratory.

The Mobile Laboratory Technician in conjunction with the Mobile Laboratory Coordinator will be responsible for conducting of geotechnical laboratory testing, including taking of samples in the field.  Such activities may from time to time involve a significant amount of physical labour.

Off-campus testing:

• As requested / instructed by the funder:
  • Collect / Gather, prepare and transportation of routine samples from the designated mines (test sites) to the mobile soils laboratory for analyses / testing.
  • Assist with compilation of the documentation required to obtain the necessary accreditation for the laboratory.
• Perform a full range of laboratory tests in the mobile soils laboratory, according to standard testing procedures:
  • Including the use of ancillary equipment such as local strain measurement and bender elements.
  • Provide support for routine testing such as moisture content testing and specific gravity testing which may be required.
  • Assist with the data entry, analysis, preparing and processing of laboratory test result reports.
  • Compile, log and record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
  • Maintain and update databases of lab test results.
• Carry out all quality control procedures, document any non-conformances and report them to the Mobile Laboratory Coordinator, this will include but is not limited to the:
  • Maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and performing routine repair to laboratory equipment.
  • Responsible for the maintenance of a clean and safe environment and to be the designated custodian for assigned laboratory space.

On-campus duties:

When not testing on sites away from Pretoria, the role will be expected to:

• Provide technical support of research, training, teaching duties and practicals in the Department by:
  • Contributing to the teaching of undergraduates and the supervision of undergraduates and postgraduates in the use of equipment during individual research projects
  • Advising students and staff on the design, construction and provision of research and laboratory equipment.
  • Supervising and demonstrating the safe usage of equipment to the students/staffAiding with laboratory testing for research purposes for students (undergraduate and post graduate) and academic staff.
• Responsible for specific tasks relating to commercial laboratory testing which may from time to time be carried out through Enterprises University of Pretoria.

Administration:

• In conjunction with the Mobile Laboratory Coordinator, take responsibility for:
  • Processing of laboratory test results;
  • Drafting laboratory reports;
  • Obtaining health and safety approvals from mines;
  • Conducting risk assessments, obtaining approvals for sampling/testing, etc.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant 3 year National Diploma;
• At least 3 years experienced in standard soil testing (grading, Atterberg limits, SG, moisture content, compaction tests, min & max dry density);
• A valid driver’s license (essential);
• The Assistant will require a Code C1 driver’s license to be allowed to drive the trucks housing the mobile soils laboratory. If the technician does not have such a license, he/she will be expected to obtain such a license once appointed.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• B-Tech or BSc;
• Training courses in geotechnical laboratory testing;
• Experienced with advanced geotechnical testing (triaxial testing);
• Experienced in managing and operating a geotechnical soils laboratory;
• Experienced with soil sampling.