Technical Assistant (Post Level 11) at Stellenbosch University

Duties    

• Overseeing and managing the operation of the workshop, supporting research and teaching needs.
• Performing all the duties of a mechanical technician in the mechanical workshop, operating all machinery and completing jobs submitted by internal and external staff, as well as contract jobs.
• Designing, constructing, installing, testing, refitting, and repairing mechanical equipment and components for experiments, research labs, and teaching labs.
• Supporting and assisting technical staff, students, and researchers with projects related to their mechanical needs.
• Advising on materials, costs, feasibility, and timescales for projects; and liaising closely with academic and research staff.
• Maintaining and upgrading machines and tools (lathes, mills, welding apparatus, etc.).
• Ensuring health and safety compliance.
• Managing the procurement and inventory of workshop equipment and materials; and assisting with drafting the workshop budget.
• Providing technical drawings and assistance in CAD/CAM software and other digital tools.
• Participating in departmental meetings and contributing to the technical strategy of the Department.
• Overseeing the regular maintenance, calibration, and repair of workshop machines.
• Supporting and providing on-the-job training and skills development programmes for interns.
• Participating in continuing professional development courses to keep skills and knowledge up to date.

Job Requirements    

• Industry certification (NQF level 7 or higher), OR significant workshop experience.
• Proven expertise in mechanical engineering, machining, and fabrication, ideally in an academic or research environment.
• Proven expertise in operating a range of workshop machinery, including advanced fabrication equipment.
• In-depth knowledge of and hands-on experience with conventional workshop machinery.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations and workshop best practices.
• Strong skills in CAD/CAM systems and technical drawing preparation.
• The ability to plan, organise, and prioritise multiple concurrent projects efficiently.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, including training and mentoring staff and students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with Faculty, students, and external suppliers.
• Commitment to continual professional development and staying current with technological advances. This includes participation in continuing professional development courses to keep skills and knowledge up to date.
• Experience in machining various materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, wood, and plastics.
• Experience supporting experimental research, ideally in a university-based or Research and Development setting.

Closing Date    13-Feb-2026