Principal Research Officer at Sappi

• We’re on the lookout for an experienced Principal Research Officer – Land Management to direct research projects, identify research priorities, design, conduct & report on specified scientific experiments/projects in the Land Management Program in order to develop new, or refine existing; BOP’s, models and tools that aims to improve value addition to Sappi from the growing of wood fibre supplied to our mills.

As a Principal Research Officer, you will be responsible for:

• Act on or initiate activities, identify opportunities and be proactive in putting forward ideas and solutions.
• Also need to be able to work well as a confident team member.
• Need to gather information, systematically implement trials and conduct analyses to establish facts and principles with the aim of problem solving.
• Work within budget constraints in implementing research activities.
• Acquire and implement required scientific and analytical skills and knowledge of appropriate field (e.g. statistical skills, software requirements, principles and approaches).
• Cultivate tight interaction and relationships with relevant tertiary institutions or other relevant facilities / role players.
• Stay abreast of current research methodology, continue to learn and develop the competencies or new skills required for the current/future roles.
• Assist in providing guidance and direction to enhance delivery from the specialist field.
• Effective time and resource management to ensure work is completed efficiently.
• Ensure effective and safe work environment for sub-ordinates.

What are we looking for?

• MSc or MTech in a relevant science (Forestry, Genetics, Horticulture, Botany, Plant Pathology, Plant Breeding).
• A PhD Degree will be a major advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in research would be beneficial.
• Driver’s licence.