First Technical Assistant

FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SCIENCE

FIRST TECHNICAL ASSISTANT

PEROMNES POST LEVEL 9

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Introducing and optimising advanced methods for nutrient profiling, (e.g., mineral analysis using ICP-OES, metabolomics);
• Performing routine animal feed proximate analyses using standard methods, including feed in vitro analysis;
• Processing research samples for post-graduate students and external clients;
• Training undergraduate and postgraduate students on specialized feed analysis;
• Compiling reports on completed analyses, processing and storing data;
• Assisting with orders for equipment and chemicals for the Nutri-lab and projects;
• General housekeeping of the labs, first aid kits, and basic fire prevention protocols;
• Compiling and submitting monthly Occupational Health and Safety reports to the faculty;
• Sorting and arranging waste collection.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant National 3-year diploma with three (3) years' experience; OR Grade 12 with five (5) years' experience;
• At least three (3) years' experience in a research laboratory or animal feeds laboratory;
• Knowledge in the field of Animal Science and animal feed analyses;
• Required techniques/analyses as listed above.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Proficiency and skills in feed analyses and lab techniques
• Human Relations;
• Appropriate language and communication skills;
• Good interpersonal skills;
• Teamwork;
• Good computer skills (Windows, MS Office, internet).

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• BSc degree in analytical chemistry or BSc Agric Animal Science or MSc (Agric) Animal Nutrition;
• Competency within a genetics laboratory, i.e., DNA extraction from biological samples;
• Registration with SACNASP.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 31 October 2025

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES:

Ms A Hlatshwayo, Email: for application-related enquiries, and Prof Carina Visser, Tel: , for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 December 2025, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.