Senior Technologist: Diagnostic and Internet-of-Things Device Design and Development at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

About the job:

The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Technologist in the Nano-Micro Manufacturing Facility (NMMF) within the Chemicals Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that the facility has functioning systems to develop own micro-fluidic devices and assist researchers and project managers to achieve their technical deliverables on projects. This position is based in Pretoria.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop practical approaches to device manufacture including designs, prototype and testing;
• Lead research projects in diagnostic device fabrication;
• Interact with industry clients and NMMF users;
• Provide support to researchers and projects with diagnostic and micro-fluidic device fabrication;
• Innovate and assist with lab-on-Chip (LOC) design manufacture and prototype assembly, which includes LOC to injection mould transfer, electro-chemical device development, assembly and lateral flow test manufacture;
• Conduct own experimental and development work in the laboratory;
• Generate concepts through internet searches, idea generation and conceptualisation;
• Oversee the use of the facility equipment such as 3D printing, laser cutting, Bio-dot, Dimatix and PDMS system;
• Keep equipment in working order, arrange maintenance and repairs as and when required;
• Ensure availability of laboratory consumables;
• Compile reports and other project related documents and general housekeeping of labs;
• Adhere to safe operation of the work environment.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• An Honours degree in mechanical/chemical engineering, electronics, industrial design, biotechnology or related fields with at least five years’ experience in mechanical design and device development;
• A Master’s degree will be advantageous;
• Must have experience in practical design and manufacturing of small devices through casting, forming, 3D printing, laser cutting
• Electronic, optic and software abilities will be advantageous 
• Must have experience in prototype device design, fabrication and project management;
• Must have the ability to engage bioengineers and chemical engineers in device development and realisation;
• Must be proficient in micro-fluidics and practical diagnostic or sensing device design and fabrication
• Grasp of all aspects involved in microfluidics and micro-manufacturing;
• Good communication and presentation skills;
• Problem-solving and solution-seeking orientation;
• Goal-oriented approach;
• Ability to work independently as well as in teams;
• Computer literacy and ability to write quality reports and proposals.

Closing date: 10 March 2023