Research Technician - Microbiology

The ARC - Animal Production Institute (ARC-API) seeks to appoint a highly motivated and dynamic, appropriately qualified and experienced candidate to complement the staff in the following position:

Research Technician - Microbiology

Key performance areas:
l Conduct microbiological experiments, including plate counts and dry mass
l Improve and develop new test methods
l Correctly apply techniques within guidelines
l Properly collect, process and capture data
l Timeously complete technical tasks according to set quality and accreditation standards
l Efficiently plan and schedule analytical services in accordance with given instructions
l Perform cost-effective and accurate sample analyses in compliance with target dates and available resources
l Accurately, timeously and reliably report analytical results
l Cost-effectively control stock according to regulations
l Maintain equipment in working order in compliance with applicable quality/accreditation standards
l Timeously report malfunctioning of equipment
l Maintain an Occupational Health and Safety laboratory according to Good Laboratory Practice l Contribute to the training of new staff
l Comply with financial policies/procedures.

Requirements:
l BSc/BTech/National Diploma in Microbiology or an equivalent qualification
l Prior relevant laboratory experience of at least 2 years, with knowledge of microbiological tests
l Experience in an accredited laboratory would be advantageous
l Skilled in Quality Assurance procedures and good laboratory practice
l Knowledge of anaerobic fermentation techniques
l Computer literacy in MS Word and Excel
l Ability to work under pressure
l Ability to perform accurate analyses and give attention to detail
l Ability to organise, prioritise and work systematically
l Ability to train people l Good communication skills
l Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality
l Communication skills in English l Skilled to work as part of the team as well as independently.
Enquiries: Dr P Strydom, tel. (012) 672-9340
Appointment will be subject to a 6-month probation. Applications: Ms Yvunne Mashilela, Private Bag X2,
Irene 0062 or faxed to: (012) 665-1563. Applications can also be e-mailed to: Kphangiso@arc.agric.za
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Competitive remuneration packages will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and stature of the positions. Confidential applications, accompanied by a detailed CV (including certificates, supporting documents and nationality) as well as the names and particulars of 3 traceable referees, should be forwarded to the person mentioned at every division.
Further information on the ARC is available on the ARC website: http://www.arc.agric.za
NB: Experience in/exposure to the duties and skills mentioned above will be taken into consideration in the selection process. Appointment is subject to appropriate reference checks and a positive security clearance.
The closing date for applications is 24 June 2011.
Applicants who have not received any response from us within 4 weeks of the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful.
The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer, but is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity. The company reserves the right not to appoint.