Latest Vacancies at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Chief Researcher: Synthetic Biology Innovation in the Synthetic Biology and Precision Medicine Centre within Advanced Chemistry and Life Sciences Division. The incumbent will be responsible to provide technical leadership and give strategic direction in the development of a bio-foundry to accelerate the delivery of products in support of a national drive to localise the production of high-value products for health and other industrial applications.   This position is based in Pretoria, South Africa.

Key responsibilities:

• Support the Advanced Chemistry and Life Sciences Division in developing and implementing a clear strategy in synthetic biology research for the benefit of health and other industries;
• Design and implement an original joint CSIR South African National Research Foundation Innovation Chair in Synthetic Biology program to generate impact within South Africa and internationally;
• Build a sustainable synthetic biology innovation and bio-foundry lab capability, ensuring that appropriate infrastructure and supporting structures are established;
• Lead multidisciplinary teams to develop and execute Design–Build–Test–Learn (DBTL) cycles for prioritised products and processes;
• Lead and deliver technical deliverables that are necessary for design, optimization, and/or commercialization of products/outputs;
• Guide and supervise senior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, doctoral and master’s students, strategically create human capital development pipelines through industry and university collaboration;
• Attract and retain suitably qualified staff to drive the Centre’s programs, and take an active role in the development, mentoring, and coaching of the team, work actively to enhance the diversity of the Centre, and play a lead role in attracting, developing, and retaining talent;
• Mobilise funding resources from diverse income streams to support the Centre’s research, development and innovation programs;
• Lead development of collaborative research and innovation networks with universities and industry partners locally and internationally;
• Drive knowledge dissemination through publication of research innovations in high impact journals, conference presentations, popular articles, and books, and provide thought leadership on the subject matter;
• Lead and contribute to the development of new and adapted technologies for licencing, patenting, and transfer to new and existing industries;
• Manage projects and programs effectively, delivering outputs on budget and time;
• Create commercialization opportunities for synthetic biology innovation through industry engagement locally and internationally;
• Drive joint technology development programs with industry locally and internationally;
• Participate in the national discourse and strategy discussions in synthetic biology.

Qualifications, skills, and experience:

• A Doctoral degree in biomedical sciences, biochemistry, synthetic biology, microbiology, molecular biology or related fields with at least fifteen years’ experience in research and development in synthetic biology innovation, preferably in academia and/or industry, of which ten years should be in managerial capacity including project and program management;
• Advanced knowledge and expertise in synthetic biology, with focus on microbiology, molecular biology, bio-foundry, and biotechnologies;
• Must be an internationally recognized expert, with a strong research, innovation and human capital development output track record, extensive publication and innovation record, minimum of H score of twenty-five (25);

Demonstrated ability to:

• Attract and successfully supervise postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows;
• Implement joint technology development programs with industries;
• Generate IP and to commercialize innovation;
• Mobilise financial resources from diverse funding sources;
• Appointed at the level of Associate Professor or full Professor, benchmarked nationally.
• Good communications and interpersonal skills.

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Signal Analyst: Electronic Warfare Implementation in the Radar and Electronic Warfare Impact Area. The incumbent will be responsible for the integration of capabilities for conceptualization, development and supply of specialised radar test and evaluation equipment. The position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop advanced signal processing algorithms;
• Simulate and analyse operation-based effects and dependencies;
• Perform simulation and mathematical analysis of subsystems, systems, and system effects;
• Perform simulation and functional analysis of subsystems, systems, and system effects;
• Implement algorithms on systems; 
• Design and execute field experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, and provide client feedback;
• Design specification of systems.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor of Engineering degree in electronic or computer engineering with at least five years’ experience in Signal Analysis/Processing;
• A Masters’ degree in the relevant field will be advantageous;

Knowledge and/or training in the following will be advantageous:

• MATLAB and Simulink;
• VHDL;
• Radio Frequency;

Must be able to:

• Work well under pressure as well as to work as part of a team;
• Establish relationships with clients and fellow staff members;
• Take ownership of a project and show initiative in their position;
• Good communication skills (verbal and written);
• Enthusiastic and self-motivated individual;
• Must be willing to work under direct supervision and in a military research environment that serves both local and international clients (stakeholders);
• Must be fluent in English;
• Have a sense of urgency and a track record to deliver on brief, on budget and on time;
• All international qualifications require an evaluation report / certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Developer: Computer Vision/HCI/Game Development in the Emerging Digital Technologies for fourth Industrial Revolution (EDT4IR) Research Centre within the Next Generation Enterprises and Institutions Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for researching, designing and implementing Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality technology to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions to government and industry stakeholders. S/He will have the opportunity to work with cutting edge Extended Reality (XR) hardware and software and explore XR integrations with other 4IR technologies. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Conceptualise, design and prototype image/3-Dimension (3D) detection/tracking/interaction modules with technical requirements for 3D/Extended Reality (XR) solutions using C++, C#, Python or JavaScript;
• Generate and contribute towards science engineering and technology (SET) activity targets and outputs (reports, guidelines, system requirements, peer-reviewed publications, technology, and software packages, etc.);
• Create and maintain the codebase, ensure code quality, performance, and modularity;
• Optimize prototype performance, including graphics rendering, memory management, and network synchronization;
• Conduct thorough testing and debugging of prototypes, identify and resolve defects and issues;
• Implement game functionality for artificial intelligence, computer vision, or haptic interaction;
• Understand and interpret client requirements to contribute to user requirement analysis and/or well-articulated project proposals;
• Keep up to date on emerging trends in XR/Computer Vision Technology in relation to new approaches, tools, methods, or frameworks;
• Participate in internal task teams or committees in relevant domains;
• Participate and engage in relevant XR/Computer Vision communities to grow networks and capabilities;
• Assist junior staff in the area(s) of expertise.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Diploma in computer systems engineering, information technology or related fields to Extended Reality with at least seven years’ experience in extended reality software development; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree in computer systems/computer engineering, information technology or related fields with at least five years' experience in extended reality software development;
• Proven experience in Computer Vision or Game Development systems and frameworks, or a similar role, showcasing a portfolio of completed games or game development projects;

The following skills or similar will be advantageous:

• Computer Vision;
• Human Computer Interaction;
• Shader Language;
• Game development.
• Must be passionate, creative and open to experimental research and continuous learning to keep up with the fast pace of innovation in XR;
• Must be proficient in programming languages such as C++, C#, Python, HTML or JavaScript, and experience with Unity, Unreal Engine, Tensorflow, OpenCV, etc.
• Knowledge of graphics programming, shaders, and rendering pipelines would be advantageous;
• Familiarity with version control systems (Git), Agile development methodologies, and collaborative development practices;
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills to identify and resolve technical issues;
• Passion for gaming and a deep understanding of various game genres and player experiences;
• Strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team;
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment;
• Creative thinking and a strong attention to detail to create memorable and immersive gaming experiences.

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bout the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Coastal Engineer in the Coastal Engineering and Ports Infrastructure Research Group within the Smart Mobility Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting and leading contract research within the Coastal Engineering field, with a focus on physical modelling. This position is based in Stellenbosch.

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct applied research and technological innovation in the following areas: Coastal engineering, physical modelling of coastal structures and ports, sediment dynamics, nearshore hydrodynamics and physical modelling of ship motions (moored as well as manoeuvring);
• Contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of strategies to grow the Coastal Engineering and Ports Infrastructure group;
• Assist the Research Group Leader to construct and implement business plans for the group, including strategy, goals, mission, HR and finances;
• Establish, build, manage and maintain mutually beneficial and credible stakeholder relationships;
• Manage a small, diverse project team during model construction and testing;
• Publish and present research at peer reviewed conferences and journals;
• Formulate research proposals and identify tasks and activities to facilitate execution;
• Prepare reports, guidelines or other documents aimed at disseminating the results and outcomes of projects;
• Negotiate and secure contracts and research and development (R&D) funding;
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior researchers, interns as well as post graduate Coastal Engineering students;
• Remain up to date with and abreast of trends so that the research group remains innovative, competitive and dynamic;
• Ensure the quality and delivery of projects and publications in the group by means of technical reviews and quality assurance.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A master’s degree in Port and Coastal Engineering with specialisation in coastal processes, coastal dynamics, coastal structures or ship motions, with at least ten years’ experience in the coastal engineering and ports environment, including port planning and/or port operations, and;
• Bachelor of engineering degree in Civil Engineering prior to the Master’s degree;
• project management and research leadership experience;
• Demonstrate track record of working at the interface between research and development, with public as well as private sector clients;
• Demonstrate track record of securing projects or research funding from public as well as private sector organisations;
• Evidence of well-established and active networks as well as the ability to interact with clients and stakeholders in order to develop and promote the vision of the Coastal Engineering and Ports Infrastructure research group;
• Ability to perform under pressure and manage or contribute to projects within allocated time and budget constraints;
• Ability to function independently and as part of a team;
• Self-motivated with excellent communication skills;
• Registration with a professional body as a Professional Engineer;
• A record of peer-reviewed scientific publications;
• A valid driver’s licence with own transport.  

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Software Developer: 3D Game Development in the Emerging Digital Technologies for fourth Industrial Revolution (EDT4IR) Research Centre within the Next Generation Enterprises and Institutions Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for researching, designing and implementing Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality technology to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions to government and industry stakeholders. S/He will have the opportunity to work with cutting edge Extended Reality (XR) hardware and software and explore XR integrations with other 4IR technologies. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Conceptualise, design and prototype game concepts, mechanics, leader board, inventory systems, systems and technical requirements for Extended Reality (XR) solutions using C#, Python, HTML or JavaScript;
• Generate and contribute towards science engineering and technology (SET) activity targets and outputs (reports, guidelines, system requirements, peer-reviewed publications, technology, and software packages, etc.);
• Create and maintain the games codebase, ensure code quality, performance, and modularity;
• Optimize game performance, including graphics rendering, memory management, and network synchronization;
• Conduct thorough testing and debugging of the game, identify and resolve defects and gameplay issues;
• Implement game functionality, including player controls, artificial intelligence, physics and audio
• Understand and interpret client requirements to contribute to user requirement analysis and/or well-articulated project proposals;
• Keep up to date on emerging trends in XR Technology in relation to new approaches, tools, methods, or frameworks;
• Participate in internal task teams or committees in relevant domains;
• Participate and engage in relevant XR communities to grow networks and capabilities;
• Assist junior staff in the area(s) of expertise.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Diploma in computer systems engineering, information technology or related fields to Extended Reality with at least seven years’ experience in extended reality software development; OR
• A Bachelor’s degree in computer systems/computer engineering, information technology or related fields with at least five years' experience in extended reality software development;
• Must have experience working with game engines and 3D modelling tools such as Unity, Three.js, Unreal Engine, Blender, 3D’s Max or Maya;
• Must be proficient in programming languages such as C#, Python, HTML or JavaScript;
• Must be passionate, creative and open to experimental research and continuous learning to keep up with the fast pace of innovation in XR;
• Creative thinking and a strong attention to detail to create memorable and immersive gaming experiences;
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment;
• Strong understanding of game development principles, including gameplay mechanics, physics, artificial intelligence, and multi functionality;
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills to identify and resolve technical issues;
• Passion for gaming and a deep understanding of various game genres and player experiences;
• Knowledge of graphics programming, shaders, and rendering pipelines;
• Familiarity with version control systems (Git), Agile development methodologies, and collaborative development practices;

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Balance Calibration Laboratory Technician/Technologist in the Aeronautics Systems Impact Area within the Defence and Security Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible to execute calibration activities on the suite of strain gauge wind tunnel balances used to collect data during wind tunnel tests. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Calibrate wind tunnel strain gauge balances using physical weights and laboratory data acquisition systems; this will require the repeated manual lifting of heavy weights on a regular basis.
• Install and upgrade equipment such as instrumentation, data acquisition systems, measurements, and controls.
• Execute preventative and corrective maintenance tasks on laboratory systems and instruments, based on facility planned maintenance work orders, and unplanned breakdowns;
• Calibrate field instrumentation and control room data acquisition systems;
• Operate specified wind tunnel facilities in the role of Tunnel Operator during a wind tunnel test campaign;
• Maintain, upgrade and operate wind tunnel facility (Balance Calibration Laboratory) systems and ensure that the facility systems are operational (these systems include but are not limited to; electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic machines coupled to computer control and uncoupled systems such as PLCs, Scadas etc.).

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A National diploma or equivalent NQF6 in electrical/mechanical/mechatronics engineering with at least three years’ experience in large complex industrial plant maintenance and operations;

The following will be advantageous:

• Trade-test certification;
• Metrology certification;
• Professional registration;
• Experience in the project management of electro-mechanical systems upgrades is required;
• Experience in metrology, instrumentation and calibrations will be advantageous;
• Knowledge of specification, use and maintenance of data acquisition systems;
• Knowledge of complex electro-mechanical systems and machinery;

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About the job:

The CSIR has two vacancies for Senior System Administrators in the ICT Services Portfolio. The incumbents will be responsible to provide specialist, high-level technical advice and support for the installing, testing, tuning, optimising, problem resolution, repairing, upgrading, and maintaining both externally and internally supplied hardware and system software such as Linux and Windows operating systems, data management products, office automation products, embedded systems, mobile systems, cloud systems, web systems, and other utility enabling software and related equipment. Responsible for high-level problem resolution of complex systems and security policy implementation and monitoring.  These positions are based in Pretoria.   

Key responsibilities:

Infrastructure and systems operations

• Maintain and perform administration on infrastructure, including but not limited to, Linux-based operating systems, Windows, storage devices, backup devices, web servers, and application servers.
• Maintain a large number of instances using automation tools, scripting, and process optimisation.
• Enable operational changes to the ICT infrastructure and applications to ensure proper compliance with release authorisation.
• Ensure and advuse on the deployment of releases.
• Ensure IT systems are available and according to business needs, SLA and ICT best practice standards.
• Enable the monitoring and reporting on services/systems availability and capacity.
• Advise stakeholders on how best to align business and systems requirements with new technology implementations.
• Ensure the development of maintenance schedules for systems equipment.
• Ensure support services to internal ICT clients to ensure speedy resolution of incidents
• Analyse existing operations and make recommendations for the improvement and growth of the IT systems
• Provide support to Analytics CoI for data centre maintenance and server outage response, as needed, to ensure availability and accessibility of infrastructure in accordance with SLAs
• Ensure that all changes in configurations are tracked and associated documentation amended to reflect those changes
• Conduct installations and maintenance of voice, data and other infrastructure
• Respond to data and voice outages and other infrastucture issues to ensure speedy resolution in accordance with SLA
• Ensure adherance to ICT standards and procedures and best practices required to ensure the availability, accessibility and utilization of infrastructure in line with CSIR business needs
• Advise on new ICT technology developments

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A Bachelor Degree (NQF Level 7) or NQF 6 Diploma in computer science/engineering, information technology or CSIR industry application

Eight to ten years of experience and a proven track record in the following;

• Administering and solving problems on VMWare, e-directory, Active Directory, LDAP, Linux, SLES OES, Apache, Tomcat, Collaboration services (Alfresco or SharePoint), DNS, Microsoft  Exchange, Windows Server, Microsoft SQL, Postgress, WINS, Proxies (UTM), MS 365 Cloud
• Planning, designing, implementing and solving problems on Backup solutions
• Expert knowledge of Server Operating systems, Collaboration Systems, Integration of systems, endpoint clients, and other relevant ICT systems and discipline(s).
• Service Management processes (Problem Management, Capacity Management, Service Design, Incident Management, Availability Management, Service continuity management, Release management, Configuration management, Information security management, Continuous improvement, Access Management, Change Management, Transition planning, and support.)
• Specialist knowledge and experience of Linux Operating Systems (SLES, OEL, Ubuntu)
• Specialist knowledge and experience with Access control and DVR monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Specialist technical knowledge of the relevant architectures and technologies, related to networks, databases, servers, operating systems, applications, mobility, back-up, proxy, DNS, e-mail, cloud, and desktop discipline(s).
• Implementation and support knowledge and experience with the following disciplines and technologies:
• MS Exchange Cloud, Storage management, email archive product/s, Spam, backup products, DNS services, Proxy services, VMWare, Microsoft Operating Systems, Inventory, and software distribution Systems, WEB Services (Apache/IIS), Webserver, PHP, Physical Security systems, FTP, Enterprise, Enterprise Hardware solutions, Service Management technologies, Directory services (LDAP, and AD), Collaboration technologies, document management systems, Vibe, POP3, MailScanner/Gateway, Information Security (Anti-Virus, Vulnerability management, patch management, threat evaluation, certificate authorities), network printing technologies, Networking.
• Working experience in Architecture and Design
• Working experience in Data Centre and Facilities
• Specialist knowledge and experience with Governance and legislative practices

Knowledge of and competence in the provision of ICT infrastructure operations, support and administration services including:

• Understanding of asset lifecycle management for hardware, software, and equipment
• Ability to create scripts in relevant programming languages
• Deep knowledge of specific systems platforms
• Strong technical knowledge of PC operating systems
• Knowledge of best practice ICT standards and procedures
• Technical knowledge of the latest ICT Infrastructure and Operation disciplines and industry trends
• Ability to apply logical thinking to gathering and analysing information, designing and testing solutions to problems, and formulating plans
• Knowledge on networking, data centre design and infrastructure, database management and information security
• Knowledge of the programming, implementation, configuration, support and maintenance of enterprise-level infrastructure

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Software Engineer in the Command, Control and Integrated Systems Impact Area within the Defence and Security Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible to design and develop software solutions including middleware and software architectures for command and control, situation awareness, integration, interoperability in military, non-military and safety and security domains. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Interpret user requirements to define software solutions;
• Determine operational feasibility by evaluating analysis, problem definition, requirements, solution development, and proposed solutions;
• Generate solutions design specifications and related data packs to address client requirements;
• Lead the development of concept and technology demonstrators, derived from requirements. This includes developing verification Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP’s) and overseeing/facilitating the acceptance of the concept demonstrator;
• Pro-actively research technologies, developments, tool improvements and its processes as well as deployments to ensure increased productivity;
• Design, develop and test software applications for web, mobile (Android, iOS) and desktop (Windows, ARM);
• Develop software solutions through systems flow, data usage, and work processes; investigating problem areas, following the software development lifecycle;
• Document and demonstrate solutions by developing documentation, flowcharts, layouts, diagrams, charts, code comments and clear code;
• Ensure that system configuration is up to date;
• Contribute to writing proposals to secure funding for the research group;
• Design and develop software architectures and applications for command-and-control demonstrators;
• Design and develop components of command-and-control applications, e.g. user interfaces, mobility, situation awareness, collaboration and integration;
• Research and develop related aspects of software engineering as applied to command and control, e.g. managing common data models, protocol translators, and software services;
• Conceptualise modelling and simulations tools and software solutions for command and control related problems in general, e.g. enterprise utility management, disaster management, infrastructure protection, and anti-poaching;
• Contribute to the development of proposals to attract funding for the research group;
• Provide mentoring and coaching junior staff and students;
• Manage medium size projects, and ensure project outputs are delivered on time, on budget and on brief.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• An Honours degree in computer engineering or computer science with at least three years’ experience in software development;
• A Master’s degree will be advantageous;

The following training, knowledge and experience are required:

• Advanced use of network protocols such as, TCP/IP, UDP, HTML etc.;
• Programming Languages (C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Swift, ASP.NET, RESTful, MS SQL, HTML5, CSS3, JQuery, JSON);
• Experience on embedded software development;
• Development of command and control related algorithms, data models, applications (web, mobile, desktop);
• Development of advanced user interfaces (web, mobile, desktop);
• Software development life cycle;
• Software development, test & debugging;
• Software modelling, design methodologies, approaches and techniques;
• Computer networks, configuration, use;
• Proven capability of document preparation;
• Data management and data security;
• System integration and interfacing;

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About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for Specialist: SHE Implementation in the Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) function. The incumbent will develop and implement the SHE management programmes and processes to achieve a Divisional and Support Function(s) SHE objectives and targets. The incumbent will guide and provide operational SHE support in the implementation, compliance and certification of international standards (e.g., ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 17025, Good Laboratory Practices [GLP]), applicable statutory requirements and SHE Management System in a Division/ Portfolio and Support Function(s). This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

SHE Planning

• Develop enabling processes / mechanisms to assist the organisation in its quest to achieve zero harm by establishing and maintaining a safe, healthy and environmentally sustainable working environment in the Division/Portfolio through embedding principles of quality in all we do.
• Ensure the development and implementation of operational excellence principles and practices throughout all business and operational processes within the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions.
• Ensure that SHE requirements, systems and processes are implemented and complied with in the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions.
• To report to the Group SHEQ function on effectiveness of systems and processes within their respective divisions/portfolios.
• Ensure that the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions are compliant with the applicable SHE legal and other requirements. This includes development/implementation and monitoring of systems and processes that assist in compliance and monitoring (e.g. risk assessment registers, SOPs).
• Develop and maintain the Divisional/Portfolios and Support Functions SHE Management Programmes (SHEMP) in support and achievement of the organisational SHE objectives and targets.
• Develop and communicate annual calendar for SHE events/ priorities.

SHE Implementation

• Plan and conduct SHE communication, training / education and awareness campaign in the Division/Portfolio and Support Functions.
• Interact with Human Capital for initiating and coordinating the annual SHE training plan and updating information for personal and audit requirements.
• Ensure all forms of SHE risk assessments are conducted e.g. general, manual handling, and also act as an interface with the Group SHE function where a specialist response is required in relation to risk assessments performed by others within the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions
• Facilitate CSIR occupational health and safety related surveys, e.g., noise, lighting, exposure to chemical substances, and make associated recommendations in consultation with the Group SHEQ function.
• Provide responsive SHE service delivery aligned with Divisional/ Portfolios and Support Functions requirements /needs.
• Continuously facilitate engagement with key internal stakeholders on SHE requirements and performance.
• Serve as SHE Committee Meetings Secretariat for the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions.

SHE Performance Evaluation

• Full responsibility for Division/Portfolio and Support Functions in preparations for annual internal and external SHE audits in order to assist the organisation in maintaining certification against SHE Standards i.e., ISO 14001, ISO 45001
• Assist in retaining laboratory accreditations and work towards the attainment of new accreditations
• Advice the Division/ Portfolios and Support Functions on effectiveness of SHE systems and processes in ensuring compliance, outline gaps if/where they exist and propose improvement plans for closure.
• Produce and coordinate yearly Divisional/Portfolios and Support Functions SHE action plans and prepare and submit monthly SHE performance reports to Divisional/ Portfolio and Support Functions Leadership.

SHE Review

• Promote continual improvement in order to enhance SHE performance in the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions.
• Facilitate and ensure SHE Management Reviews (MR) are planned and conducted within the Division/Portfolios and Support Functions

Human Resource Management

• Manage, mentor, coach and play an advisory role for staff growth and development.
• Conduct performance management contracting and reviews for all staff at the recommended periods, for the purpose of managing and improving both individuals’ performance and service delivery.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• A three-year degree or equivalent in any of the SHE disciplines or a formal qualification in the scientific or engineering field coupled with a qualification in at least one of the recognised SHE disciplines.
• SAATCA or any other recognised auditor registration will be highly advantageous.

A minimum of five years’ experience in the implementation of SHE management systems in a research environment, with a solid track record in the following:

• Comprehensive experience in the implementation and evaluation of SHE management systems.
• Exposure to evaluation, monitoring and management of laboratory systems based on ISO 17025 and the basic Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) principles is highly recommended.
• A minimum of three years in the implementation of systems.
• Exposure in a research and development and/or pilot scale environment is recommended.
• Experience in SHE systems as applied to research and development, business analysis, business process re-engineering, product development and testing is required.
• Experience in risk management and risk control as a function.
• Computer literacy as an advanced user as well as good administrative and analytical skills is required.
• All international qualifications require an evaluation report / certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

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About the Job

• The CSIR has a vacancy for a Commodity Specialist (Travel)in the Strategic Procurement Servicesportfolio. The successful incumbent wi ll ensure efficient travel related procurement activities for the organisation, including assistance with the management of travel related contracts in compliance with relevant travel legislation, procurement policy and procedures . This position is based in Pretoria.

Key Responsibilities
Operational Travel Management

• Ensure optimum travel service delivery to CSIR clusters and/or portfolios
• Manage traveller expectations, including the effective and timely response to all travel requests, including management of all travel complaints through to successful resolutions
• After-hour call management and reporting
• Negotiation and management of management fee
• Manage procurement transactional services relating to travel commodity ensuring reduction in purchase order cycle times and tracking supplier performance against targets
• Ensure that all traveller’s portfolios are completed and maintained by Travel Management Company (TMC)
• Assess and implement automation of processes to improve service delivery
• Manage procurement activities for travel commodity throughout the purchasing and supply chain and ensure that purchasing activities are provided in a fair, equitable, transparent, cost effective, efficient and effective manner
• Ensure maximisation of rebates and / or discounts from agreements
• Create travel purchase orders, via e-procure to pay, including for management fee and after hour calls
• Assist finance with open voucher report and outstanding travel related invoices and queries.

Governance, Compliance and Reporting

• Assist management with the drafting and compiling of travel procedures and processes
• Ensure Procurement unit’s compliance with CSIR policies, procedures with specific focussing on the Travel and related policies
• Manage the Travel Manavement Comoany service level agreement and report back on customer satisfaction.
• Collect and analyse spend data for all travel related transactions for informed SPU decision making with respect to travel
• Issuing of all amended purchase orders after checking that amendment was approved according to the appropriate process.
• Obtaining approval for all travel changes requested during and after office hours
• Manage all travel deviations and ensuring compliance to all relevant legislation.
• Accurate and timeous reporting of relevant management information to SPU Management including Quarterly and Annual Review presentations

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaising with internal customers and external suppliers in a professional and efficient manner and ensuring communication between all travel agents and all CSIR clusters and/or portfolios
• Arrange review meetings and keep minutes of all meetings with travel service providers
• Build and maintain professional and ethical relationships with internal clients and CSIR suppliers
• Training and awareness raising of travel policies and procedures for colleagues and/or employees

Strategic Travel Management Support

• Support with the management of travel contracts for identified travel agencies, airlines, car rentals, accommodation and other travel related suppliers.
• Responsible for the account management of all travel contracts Assist with the negotiation and drafting of contracts, including service fees and rates
• Assist with the review and management of existing and new supplier relationships
• Identify opportunities for cost savings in the organisation relating to travel transactions / contracts
• Keep abreast of business systems and new developments
• Particpate and collborate with SPU, the Travel Manaement Compay and travelers in developing, implementing and managing the CSIR’s Travel Framework

Qualifications, Skills And Experience

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management or equivalent qualification (NQF Level 7)
• Five (5) years’ experience in a purchasing environment with knowledge of the Travel Industry, preferably within an organisation where the PFMA was applicable
• MS Office Suite
• Exposure to procurement systems (i.e., SAP, PeopleSoft, e-Procure, etc.) will be advantageous.
• Project Administration
• Knowledge of travel agency operations and supplier management
• Sourcing, buying, and negotiations skills
• Communication skills
• Basic contract management skills
• E-procurement knowledge
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail needed
• High degree of problem solving ability
• Planning and organisational skills
• Ability to meet demanding deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong customer service focus
• Interpersonal skills
• Thorough understanding of the business processes needed
• Computer reservation system knowledge
• Strong presentation skills
• Analytical abilities
• Understanding of corporate procurement