Laboratory Technician Chemistry Science

SUMMARY:
The Department of Chemistry at the Nelson Mandela University has a long history of excellence and le

POSITION INFO:
Nelson Mandela University reserves the right not to make an appointment. In considering candidates for appointment into the advertised posts, preference will be accorded to persons from a designated group in accordance with the approved Nelson Mandela University Employment Equity Plan. CORE PURPOSE OF JOB The Department of Chemistry at the Nelson Mandela University has a long history of excellence and leadership in teaching and research in various fields of chemistry. The main purpose of the job is to assist technicians and lecturers by providing for laboratory operational requirements, namely, preparing for undergraduate practicals and providing support for research laboratories. KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS •Planning and supervising the preparation and preparation (where required) of undergraduate practical sessions. •Ensuring that all reagents are accurately prepared and standardized when necessary. •Planning and supervising the preparation and presentation of undergraduate practical sessions. •Giving technical advice about practicals and undergraduate analytical instruments to lecturers and students. •Ensures that undergraduate instruments are maintained by monitoring cleaning, logbooks, keeping service records, making requisition and contacting service support for repairs when required. •Provide technical support for the teaching and research programme in Chemistry department. •Inventory control of laboratory apparatus, instrumentation and chemicals. •Ensuring that laboratory supplies and other supplies are ordered and delivered so that stock levels are maintained •Monitor and control laboratory Health and Safety Matters in compliance with the OSHA Act. •Postgraduates' Laboratories: The incumbent will be required to monitor general safety practices, infrastructure needs, and provide technical support, on the research laboratories in liaison with academics working in those laboratories. •Perform general administrative duties. CORE COMPETENCIES •Knowledge of chemicals and laboratory equipment, and the correct usage thereof. •Ability to set up laboratory apparatus and equipment. •A team player with a passion for student training. •Ability to work with lecturers, technicians, researchers and undergraduate students. •Problem solving and analysis, computer literacy and good administrative skills. •Good written and verbal communication skills. •Knowledge of OHSA regulations. REQUIREMENTS •A minimum of Diploma (NQF 6) Analytical Chemistry or equivalent. •A minimum of 5 years exposure to managing undergraduate Chemistry laboratories. •Experience or previous participation in overseeing\/demonstrating undergraduate practical sessions in Chemistry. •Proven experience of dealing with chemical laboratory waste. •Demonstratable awareness of the requirements of Laboratory safety Act. •Functional knowledge and skills of stock control and procurement within budget. •Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety act 85 of 1993 requirements for chemical environments