Technical Assistant (post level 15) - (1081) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Assist with the care and handling of animals and their environment.
• Empty and clean animal cages and pens.
• Clean the animal research facility, which include animal rooms, corridors, washrooms, walk-in freezer, the food and general storerooms.
• Clean, wash and refill water bottles and troughs.
• Clean equipment as part of the maintenance plan in the facility. 
• Move/carry heavy cages and prepare cages for use.
• Fill feed containers.
• Operate the washing machine, cage washer, bottle washer and autoclaves. 
• Assist to unload food and pack it in the food storeroom.
• Assist with stock taking.
• Prepare food and feed the animals and remove food.
• Prepare environmental enrichment toys for the animals. 
• Assist to move and restrain animals.
• Perform duties on specific weekends and public holidays.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• Grade 10 or National Vocational Certificate on NQF level 2.
• A minimum of one (1) year relevant working experience related to the duties and responsibilities.

Recommendations:

• Grade 12 or National Vocational Certificate on NQF level 4. 
• Animal handling experience.

Competencies
Key Competencies Required:

Results Orientated:

• The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations. 
• The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

Strategic thinking

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
• The ability to plan work and to follow plans. 

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations. 
• Proficient in MS Office.

Leading:

• The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
• The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude, and encourage people to work together.

Building coalitions:

• The ability to be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others. 
• The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration, and working with close supervision.