Senior Laboratory Technician: Agriculture (One- Year Fixed Term Contract)

Purpose
The main purpose of this position is the overall management of laboratories and to ensure that practicals offered to students conform to the highest quality standards and supports the teaching, research and community engagement objectives of the Department.

Minimum Requirements Postgraduate Diploma/Honours (NQF 8) inAgriculture (or related field)
Minimum of 3 years experience related to the operation and management of agricultural farm and laboratory activities especially in a tertiary institution.Relevant experience in mixed farming (Animal and Crop Production)
Computer literateDriver's license.
Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Management
Assume operational control of Laboratories.Purchase, store, use and dispose of materials and protective clothing.Organize and/or install and commission all new apparatus.Coordinate maintenance of equipmentLiaise with representatives and visitors to Laboratories.
Instrument and Equipment Management
Plan, schedule and supervise a regular maintenance program for all apparatus/equipment.Arrange for the repair and maintenance of laboratory and related equipment and instruments.Liaison with manufacturers for major repairsMaintenance of service histories and contracts for all equipment/instrumentsEnsure security checks of the laboratory to ensure equipment is secured/protected.Install and commission minor.Education and Training (Practical's)
Conduct preparatory work for both laboratory and farm practicals.Supervise staff (Technicians and Lab Assistants) during the setting up of practicalsTo be available in the relevant practical session and to instruct students as directed by the Lecturer.Liaise with external stakeholder/s to keep abreast of latest developments and equipment available.Compile or assist in the compilation of practical manuals.
Health and Safety Management
Responsible for Health & Safety Induction to all staff, students and visitors to the laboratory
Ensure all aspects of Health and Safety are observed in the laboratory.Maintain and upgrade health and safety standards.Ensure laboratory staff is complying to health and safety legislation.
Resource Management: Human Resources
Manage Laboratory staff and fair allocation of workloads.
Manage staff training, development, coaching and mentoring.Manage employment relations (grievance, discipline and conflict resolution)Manage Laboratory staff leave.
Resource Management: budget, finance and procurement
Purchasing of equipment and protective clothingStock control and ordering of consumables.Manage expenses against budget.Report on expenditure.
Research
Personal/Professional Development
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting


Assumption of duties: As mutually agreed to upon acceptance of the appointment. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment.
This position may be subjected to assessments.
Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Note: Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is dedicated to meeting its Employment Equity targets.


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