Scientific Technician Production Grade A at Department of Agriculture(DOA)

REQUIREMENTS :

• Applicant must be in possession of a Grade 12 certificate and National Diploma in Science or relevant qualification. Compulsory registration with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Certified Natural Scientist.
• Job Related Work Experience: Minimum of 3 years post qualification in the field of botany, horticulture, agronomy, agriculture or conservation of plant genetic resources.
• Job Related Knowledge: Programme and project management. Scientific methodologies. Research and development. Computer-aided scientific applications. Knowledge of legal compliance. Technical report writing. Creating high-performance culture. Professional judgment. Data analysis. Mentoring.
• Job Related Skills: Creativity. Self-management. Financial management. Customer focus and responsiveness. Communication. Computer literacy. Networking. People management. Planning and organising. Conflict management. Change management. Problem solving and analysis. Working extended working hours. Handling of hazardous chemicals. Valid Driver’s license. 

DUTIES :

• Develop and implement methodologies, policies, systems and procedures relevant to conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA). Perform technical scientific functions and tasks that require interpretation in the presence of an established framework. Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems and procedures.
• Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions. Preparation for and participation in research activities. Data collection through field surveys. Maintenance, calibration and operation of scientific equipment. Provide technical support and advise relevant to conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA).
• Develop working relations with client base. Promote public awareness of scientific activities. Provide technical / scientific data, information and advice. Perform technical scientific analysis and regulatory functions relevant to conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA).
• Preparation of data and routine interpretation. Database and data management, Analysis of technical scientific data. Dissemination of information. Apply the appropriate scientific and technical procedures/skills to generate information and knowledge. Formulate proposals and compile reports. Develop and customize operational procedures.
• Research and Development relevant to conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA). Continuous professional development to keep up with new technologies and procedures. Conceptualise and development of scientific equipment. Equipment review.
• Research/literature studies to improve expertise. Publish and present technical reports and research findings. Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on technology-related matters. Human Capital and Development relevant to conservation and sustainable use of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (PGRFA).
• Mentor, train and develop candidate research technicians and others to promote skills/knowledge transfer and adherence to sound scientific principles and code of practice. Supervise technical support and processes. Manage the performance management and development of staff.