Laboratory Assistant - Department of Production Animal Studies at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Research support, day to day care of experimental poultry flock, assistance with trials including shift/weekend work/ out of hours availability, as needed;
• Assisting with student training, day to day care of the vehicle fleet and occasional driving for farm visits;
• Assisting with post mortem examinations on poultry and other species, as needed;
• Cleaning and disinfecting of cages and of the post mortem area;
• Humane euthanasia of poultry;
• Removing of carcasses;
• Collecting/delivering goods; and
• Administration. i.e. sample reception, telephonic enquiries, reports and filing.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

• Grade 12;
• Driver’s License – Code 08; and
• Two years’ experience in poultry husbandry and sample collection.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES)

• Proficient knowledge of the cleaning and sterilization of laboratory equipment;
• Physically able to pick up and carry heavy containers;
• Ability to perform courier work;
• Proficiency in clerical and administrative skills; and
• Proficiency in computer literacy (MS Word & Excel – two years’ experience).