Scientific Technician Production Grade A (Environmental Interactions Research)
DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Overview
The candidate’s responsibilities will include the following: Provide technical assistance to research on biological oceanography and climate change processes around South Africa. Implement technical scientific functions and tasks that require interpretatio n in the presence of an established framework.
Requirements
- National Diploma (NQF 6) in Biological Science, or equivalent qualification as recognised by SAQA
- Compulsory registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as certificated natural scientist
- Three (3) years’ relevant post -qualification technical experience is required
- Experience in research design and application of data collection methods
- All shortlisted candidates, including the SMS, shall undertake two pre-entry assessments
- One will be a practical exercise to determine a candidate’s suitability based on the post’s technical and generic requirements and the other must be an integrity (ethical conduct) assessment
- Familiarity with data management/ quality control and parameters for validation
- Computer literacy, including coding
- Experience in data management and analysis software/programs
- Understanding of practical application
- design
- maintenance and/or calibration of marine monitoring equipment/systems
- Ability to organise and participate in field work and/or go to sea for extended periods
- Sound laboratory knowledge and experience
- The following would be an added advantage
- a small craft skipper’s certificate (Merchant Shipping Act, 1951)
- commercial dive qualification or willingness to train for one
- Experience working with automated image analysis equipment and microplastics sampling and analysis equipment
Responsibilities
- The candidate’s responsibilities will include the following: Provide technical assistance to research on biological oceanography and climate change processes around South Africa
- Implement technical scientific functions and tasks that require interpretatio n in the presence of an established framework
- Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems and procedures
- Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions
- Prepare for and participate in research activities
- Conduct dat a collection through field surveys
- Conduct maintenance, calibration and operation of scientific equipment
- Provide technical assistance to research on methodologies and technology development
- Manage technical workshops and assets
- Develop working relatio ns with the client base
- Promote public awareness of scientific activities
- Provide technical/scientific data, information and advice
- Data management and validation
- Make preparation of data and routine interpretation
- Conduct analysis of technical scient ific data
- Formulate proposals and compile reports
- Develop and customise operational procedures
- Distribution of information
- Maintain databases and data management
- Apply the appropriate scientific and technical procedures/skills to generate information
- Participate in research cruises and field trips
- Conduct equipment reviews
- Conduct research/literature studies to improve expertise
- Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on technology -related matters
- Publish and present technical reports and research fi ndings
- Maintain continuous professional development to keep up with new technologies and procedures
- Conceptualise and develop scientific equipment
- Assist/train interns & students in data processing, data formatting, data archiving, or product generation
- Participate in outreach events as requested
How to apply
All applications to be submitted online on the following link: https://erecruitment.environment.gov.za/
Enquiries
Mr. Marco Worship at 082 309 7546
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