Principal Technician (P000246) (Re-Advertisement) at North West University

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• The incumbent should manage workshop personnel and equipment while supporting the department in designing research equipment by translating academic concepts into practical, implementable solutions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Teaching/Learning

• Demonstrate practical competence across fitting and turning, machining, welding, and boilermaking, with additional experience in repairing electronic components and maintaining analytical laboratory equipment, contributing effectively to hands-on teaching, student support, and the upkeep of teaching and learning facilities.

Research

• Practical expertise in fitting and turning, machining, welding, and boilermaking, complemented by experience in repairing electronic components and maintaining analytical laboratory equipment to support research within the School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering and the Centre of Excellence for Carbon-Based Fuels.
• This includes providing technical input on pilot-scale projects and translating academic concepts into practical, implementable solutions that enhance system safety, efficiency, and overall design optimization.

Commercialization

• Demonstrate technical expertise in fitting and turning, machining, welding, and boilermaking, with additional experience in electronic component repair and the maintenance of analytical laboratory equipment, supporting externally funded projects and collaborative research initiatives.

 Management

• Oversight and supervision of junior workshop staff, including on-the-job training, skills development, and the identification of training and capacity-building needs, while guiding the team in translating academic concepts into practical, implementable solutions.
• This role also ensures the efficient operation of workshop activities, including managing consumables, scheduling equipment maintenance, and motivating for the replacement of ineffective equipment.

Minimum requirements

• A National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (NQF Level 6) or an N6 Certificate in Mechanical Engineering with a recognised trade qualification.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in engineering technical support.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ management experience.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:                                   

• Electrical wiring, panel assembly, and soldering.
• Machining and fitting.
• Boiler making and welding.
• Fault finding and repairing of electronic equipment.
• Workshop supervision, planning, and resource management.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Communication and stakeholder liaison
• Leadership and team development
• Coaching and mentorship
• Collaborative engagement.

Apply by: 7 September 2026