Technical Officer / Assistant Technical Officer at Stellenbosch University

Duties/Pligte        
Analytical and training duties:

• All aspects related to general chemical analyses performed in the laboratory, acting both independently as well as in support of the other CA Lab staff. This would include preparing standards, calibration curves, and samples; setting up instruments, monitoring the analytical performance of the instruments and other quality control parameters, as well as basic data compilation, quantification and interpretation;
• Supporting and training students and staff in sample preparation and data analysis when needed.
• Recordkeeping and administration:
• Compiling and updating the Standard Operating Procedures for the method portfolio of the CA Lab;
• Supporting the logistical and administrative aspects of the laboratory, including stock taking and liaising with company representatives to obtain quotes for general consumables;
• Performing administrative duties related to infrastructure/facilities for the CA Lab;
• Acting as health and safety representative of the laboratory and chemical waste management officer for the DVO/SAGWRI environment.

Job Requirements/Pos Vereistes        

• MSc in Chemistry and / or Biochemistry, or an equivalent related study field with analytical chemistry as focus, with one year of relevant work experience (for appointment on the technical officer level);

           OR

• BSc Hons with Chemistry and /or Biochemistry, or a relevant field with analytical chemistry as focus, with two years' relevant work experience (for appointment on the assistant technical officer level);
• Experience in performing chemical analytical analyses independently;
• Practical experience in preparing samples using a variety of techniques, including but not limited to liquid/liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, derivatisation, etc.;
• Good planning, organisational, time management and problem-solving skills;
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work under pressure and in a team;
• Good written and verbal communication skills in a multilingual environment;
• Proficient with MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook and Teams).

Recommendation/Aanbeveling        

• Experience in a service-orientated analytical laboratory, running high-level routine work;
• Practical experience in metabolite analysis of plant, juice and wine extracts;
• General knowledge of the South African grape and wine industry.