Technician at University of the Witwatersrand

Description:

• The Division of Forensic Medicine and Pathology invites applications from motivated and suitably qualified candidates for the position of Technician. This is an entry-level role within a dynamic academic and forensic environment, offering training and development opportunities in medico-legal practice, imaging, and forensic science.
• The successful candidate will contribute to forensic casework, imaging, and academic support across University and Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) facilities. This position provides an excellent opportunity for early-career graduates to gain practical experience in forensic science within an academic and medico-legal setting.

Brief Description        
Education, Training or Experience (Minimum Requirements)

• A relevant BSc degree or equivalent qualification in a health science or forensic-related field
• Good command of the English language, both written and spoken.
• Computer literacy (Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook). 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills which contribute to the promotion and development of the Division within the University.
• One to two years’ experience in a Forensic Science Mortuary environment with the ability to work in a medico-legal environment requiring professionalism, confidentiality, and attention to detail.

Advantageous 

• A Forensic Science Honours degree or other forensically relevant qualification
• Experience with forensic photography in medico-legal or post-mortem settings, including use of photographic equipment
• Familiarity with photo editing or imaging software
• Prior exposure to LODOX or other radiographic imaging systems
• Exposure to or involvement in human identification processes, including post-mortem identification, facial reconstruction, or related work
• Experience supporting forensic or medico-legal research projects, particularly those involving imaging or identification

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

• Taking delivery of and processing skeletal/decomposed/charred human remains admitted for Forensic Anthropological examinations.
• Implementing and maintaining an inventory of all cases admitted for Forensic Anthropological Analyses.
• Managing and performing radiological imaging of remains using LODOX scanning technology.
• Maintaining health and safety standards of the Forensic Entomology and Anthropology Laboratories.
• Assisting with the Division’s academic and research endeavours, as required.
• Providing relevant procurement and administrative support when necessary.

KEY FUNCTIONS

• Photographic and radiographic documentation of medico-legal post-mortem findings
• Processing skeletal, decomposed and charred human remains for forensic anthropological analysis
• Assisting with and performing LODOX imaging of human remains
• Maintaining photographic, videographic and radiographic image databases
• Ensuring compliance with chain-of-custody procedures and medico-legal protocols
• Maintaining occupational health and safety standards in laboratories and imaging areas
• Supporting teaching, research activities (including applied forensic research projects), and Honours-level activities within the Division
• Supporting activities within the Human Identification Unit, including imaging and documentation for identification purposes
• Providing administrative and procurement support, including obtaining quotations where required
• Providing relevant academic administrative support to the Division and obtaining quotes for relevant equipment or items as and when necessary.
• Performing any other tasks or activities which fall within the general functioning of the Division as determined by the Academic Head of Division.

Competencies and Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to work effectively under pressure
• Good organisational and time-management skills
• Professional, ethical, and respectful handling of sensitive material
• Ability to work both independently and within a multidisciplinary team
• Willingness to learn and develop within the forensic science environment

Deadline:18th September,2026