Senior Laboratory Animal Technologist (P001524) at North West University

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

• To provide management oversight to the breeding and supply of Specified Pathogen Free (SPF) rodents, as well as to provide technical assistance to researchers.
• The position shall also provide management and implementation of a quality management system.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• GLP Operations Management – management assistance.
• GLP rodent breeding management.
• Managing staff.
• Liaison with researchers and technical support.
• Delivery and administration of training and research support.
• Maintain quality assurance system.
• Services and appliances liaison.
• Occupational Health and Safety (OHS).

Minimum requirements

• A Bachelor of Science degree or advanced diploma in Laboratory Animal Science (NQF level 7).
• Fluent in English.
• Registered with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC).
• A minimum of three (3) years’ animal laboratory science experience as a Senior Animal Laboratory l Technologist.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in rodent husbandry as a Senior Animal Laboratory Technologist.

ADDED ADVANTAGES & PREFERENCES:

• A minimum of three (3) years’ management experience as a supervisor.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in the establishment and implementation of a quality assurance system.
• Fluent in Afrikaans would be a recommendation for training purposes.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Computer literacy, particularly in processing data (Excel, MS Word) and internet.
• Knowledge of different rodent strains and an understanding of the application of Mendel’s laws.
• Knowledge of health screening systems (sentinels) and aseptic sampling techniques.
• Knowledge of animal breeding behaviour.
• Knowledge of different infectious agents, how they multiply, spread and affect animals.
• The ability to function independently and as part of a team.
• Operation and management of quality management systems.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Systematic organisational skills.
• Communication ability.
• Management ability.
• Interpersonal relations.
• Confidentiality.

Apply by: 27 October 2025