Assistant Technical and Infrastructure Support Officer

Duties/Pligte

**Infrastructure and Facilities Support**Acting as the main liaison between the Department of Biochemistry, Facilities Management, and contractors for all infrastructure-related matters.- Identifying and addressing maintenance issues across the Department (plumbing, electricity, gas, doors, windows, paint, flooring, etc.).- Logging maintenance requests via the University's online system (Planon), following up on outstanding issues, and confirming task completion.- Coordinating and monitoring contractor work on-site and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.- Coordinating annual service of fume hoods, fire safety equipment, relevant filters, etc. as scheduled by Facilities Management.- Accompanying contractors during inspections and surveys, and providing advice as needed.- Overseeing availability of critical departmental resources, including various gasses, ethanol, and liquid nitrogen.- Managing the logistics for cleaning tasks.

**Equipment Maintenance and Logistics**Manage scheduling and coordination of service and/or repair of departmental equipment.- Liaise with equipment users and service providers to organise servicing, including obtaining quotes, placing orders, and arranging payments.- Maintain accurate records of all services, repairs, and supplier interactions.- Coordinate with suppliers for the delivery and installation of new equipment.

**Safety and Emergency Management**Conduct monthly safety inspections in collaboration with the departmental safety officer and departmental manager.- Ensure functionality of safety systems including fire alarms, fridge alarms. CO2 and O2 gas monitoring systems, eyewash stations and emergency showers etc.- Investigate triggered alarms (such as fridge alarms) and provide emergency response support- Act as the departmental after-hours contact, i.e. respond to after-hours emergencies as and when needed (should have access to transport at all hours)- Actively participate in departmental and building safety committees.

**Departmental Support**Assist with reception and operational tasks during staff absences- Transport visitors or staff when required (valid driver's license essential).- Assist with chemical management system (CISPRO)- Control and manage laboratory apparatus, chemical waste, and chemical stores- Keeping a record of liquid nitrogen requests from outside users

**Building Management**Infrastructure and facility support of shared spaces and facilities (including HVAC and cooling systems) in JC Smuts A and B block- Respond to all fire alarms- Emergency response and management of building-related issues in JC Smuts A and B block- Support of management of building generator and UPS-related issues

Job Requirements/Pos Vereistes- Matric **plus** a relevant tertiary qualification on NQF level 7, plus two years' relevant experience in a laboratory/technical environment, **_OR_**-
- Proven experience in technical maintenance, infrastructure, and/or facilities management.- Proven experience in the management of equipment in a laboratory/technical environment, including support and coordination of equipment maintenance and servicing.- Strong problem-solving skills.-
- The ability to manage multiple tasks according to priorities.- Strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail.- The ability to work effectively, both independently and in a team.- Good written and verbal communication skills.- Good interpersonal skills.- Proven computer literacy (Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and MS Teams).- A valid driver's licence.

Recommendation/Aanbeveling- Experience working in a university and/or research laboratory environment.- Familiarity with basic laboratory infrastructure systems (gas, vacuum, HVAC, temperature monitoring, etc.).- Familiarity with health and safety protocols.