Job Requirements
Financial recovery and Sustainability
- Apply scientifically accredited and acceptable process steps to interpret data and provide technical solutions that are of exceptional quality and cost-effective
- Perform analysis of ad-hoc samples for which validated methods do not exists by using acceptable laboratory practices to provide solutions to new challenges.
- Report back accurately and clearly on assigned tasks within project framework
Technology Development and Improvement
- Develop and validate methods and systems, in accordance with relevant standards to implement new applications to improve lab capabilities
- Assist with funding proposals to ensure that appropriate actions (such as purchase of new instrumentation and hiring of staff) are implemented.
- Collaborate with support functionaries to diagnose and find solutions to technical problems.
Marketing
- Develop factsheets to promote products and services for NLS
- Participates on the scientific panel, working groups and scientific conferences at a national level in order to promote NLS capabilities to the market
Product development
- Produce technical reports on projects or activities carried out.
- Contribute to product development activities assigned to him/her.
OHS, QMS and Regulatory Compliance
- Attest to the performance of methods and instruments by using annually condensed reports on quality control data to ensure the improvement of quality control measures and analytical results
- Support the laboratory quality system (e.g. ISO/IEC17025) accreditation and maintenance in accordance with activities allocated in terms of NLS Quality Resource Plan
- Participate in BBS activities.
- Develop and revise procedures and protocols in line with national and international guideline including facilitation of PTS activities
- Lead all investigations of minor NC for applicable management systems to the lab.
Human Capital Development
- Provide training on the theory and practical/experiments of techniques and methods in the areas of operation to ensure continued competence of technical personnel
- Provide training and practical assistance to lab technicians/analysts in basic lab practices, routine analysis and newly developed methods
- Prepare and supervise procedures for lab analysis, data handling and reduction, and the use of validated analytical methods.
- Acquire new knowledge (CBTO) and retain professional certification up-to-date and valid on an annual basis
Minimum Qualifications:
- BSc Honours Degree in Chemistry or Physics or Equivalent
- MSc will be an added advantage
Minimum Experience
- 3-5 or more years’ experience in lab operations with
- 3-4 years practical experience of Microsoft Excel, MS Word, Power Point, SharePoint, and LIMS.
- Certificate in SANAS ISO/IEC 17025 Systems and ISO 9001.
- Be legible to be registered as Radiation & Chemical Worker
- Professional Certification in Natural Sciences or legible for certification
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Job Requirements
System design and development
Oversee Equipment Selection
- Evaluate project specifications to determine compatible PLCs, instruments, and interfaces.
- Compare vendor equipment based on performance, cost, and support.
- Coordinate with engineers and vendors to procure components within budget and specifications;
Perform Detailed System Design Including Layout, Wiring, and HMI
- Design system layouts for optimal space use and maintenance access, adhering to safety standards.
- Develop wiring schematics for safe and reliable power and signal distribution.
- Create user-friendly HMI interfaces for efficient system monitoring and operation.
Develop Software for PLC/SCADA and Fieldbus Systems
- Program PLCs to meet system requirements with an emphasis on performance and reliability.
- Configure SCADA interfaces for real-time process control and data monitoring.
- Establish Fieldbus protocols for seamless data exchange and equipment interoperability.
Documentation and testing
Generate Design Documentation
- Draft detailed schematics and blueprints defining equipment configurations and system integration.
- Compile technical specifications and guidelines for installation, operation, and maintenance.
- Create a comprehensive manual including all system components, protocols, and safety instructions.
Conduct Acceptance Testing
- Develop test protocols to validate system functionality against technical requirements.
- Simulate operating conditions to evaluate system performance and reliability under different scenarios.
- Document test results, analyze discrepancies, and recommend modifications for system optimization.
Document the Manufacturing Process
- Record step-by-step procedures used in the assembly of electro-mechanical hardware.
- Outline quality assurance measures implemented during the manufacturing stage.
- Maintain a log of parts used, revisions made, and any deviations from the original design specifications.
Implementation and commissioning
Assemble Electro-Mechanical Hardware
- Gather all necessary components, tools, and equipment required for the assembly process.
- Follow engineering diagrams and assembly instructions to construct the hardware components accurately.
- Perform initial testing on the assembled hardware to ensure proper assembly and basic functionality.
Implement Software
- Install and configure the PLC/SCADA software according to the system design specifications.
- Integrate custom-developed software modules and third-party applications as required.
- Test software functionality to confirm that system operations are as expected and resolve any issues
Commission Installed Systems with Complete Documentation
- Conduct thorough inspection and functional tests to ensure systems meet design and operational criteria.
- Prepare and execute a detailed commissioning plan that includes step-by-step processes for bringing the system online.
- Compile a complete set of documentation that covers system specifications, commissioning procedures, and final test results for handover to the client/user.
Network and data management
Manage and Maintain the SAFARI-I Industrial Network
- Monitor network performance, identifying and resolving any issues to ensure consistent uptime and reliability.
- Update network infrastructure, including both hardware and software components, to improve performance and scalability.
- Enforce network policies and procedures to maintain network integrity and compliance with industry regulations.
Perform Regular Maintenance
- Schedule and execute regular system checks and updates to hardware and software to prevent failures.
- Replace or repair worn-out or obsolete components as part of a proactive maintenance strategy.
- Document maintenance activities, including what was done, when, and by whom, for future reference and compliance purposes.
Secure Data and Uphold Industrial IT Standards
- Implement robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, anti-virus software, and intrusion detection systems to protect against unauthorized access.
- Back up data regularly and establish reliable recovery protocols to prevent data loss and ensure business continuity.
- Stay current with industrial IT standards and best practices, applying updates and modifications to maintain the highest level of system security and compliance.
Safety culture and performance
- Participation in Organization Safety Culture and Safety Performance Activities
Safety Training:
- Engage in regular safety trainings and contribute to the training of staff.
BBS Observations:
- Perform monthly safety observations to identify and encourage safe workplace behaviors.
Safety Initiatives:
- Actively participate in and promote safety culture through continuous improvement efforts and open communication on safety matters.
Minimum Qualifications:
- National Diploma (NQF 6) in Electrical Engineering (Light current).
- Certification in PLC/SCADA systems is highly desirable.
Minimum Experience
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in a similar role within an industrial environment.
- Proven experience with PLC programming and SCADA system design.