About the position
Postion Summary:
iThemba LABS is seeking an experienced Mechanical Technician for its Tandem Accelerator and Mass Spectrometry Department.
The incumbent will operate, maintain and conduct mechanical repairs related to the Tandem Accelerator and its associated systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate the Tandem Accelerator and its associated systems to ensure the reliable delivery of a consistent, high-quality particle beam in accordance with user requirements
- Optimise the operation and maintenance of the Tandem accelerator system and its beam transportation
- Log the Tandem Accelerator parameters during and after operation and oversee the accurate recording of all related activities
- Ensure all power supplies are conditioned, ion sources are properly loaded, monitoring systems are in good working order and ready for operation
- Responsible for the maintenance and repairs of the Tandem's mechanical systems, including fault-finding to component level
- Perform routine maintenance procedures
- Carry out mechanical repairs on the Tandem Accelerator and associated equipment. Where repairs cannot be completed internally, initiate and coordinate the engagement of external contractors to ensure effective and timely resolution
- Use CAD tools (Solid edge, Auto CAD etc) to design, modify and document accelerator components and related mechanical systems
- Apply systems engineering processes and configuration management principles in design and operational activities
- Perform standby duties relating to the operation and maintenance of the Tandem accelerator
- Assist with accelerator development work as and when required
Key Requirements:
Qualification:
- BTech in Mechanical / Mechatronics Engineering
Experience:
- Minimum 3 years' experience in at least one of the following:
- Maintenance and design of mechanical systems
- Operation of scientific research equipment
Knowledge:
- Demonstrate working knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics and vacuum systems in a technical/accelerator environment
- Able to perform mechanical engineering design analysis and calculations
- Use CAD tools to design, modify and document accelerator components and related mechanical systems
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics and technical documentation accurately
- Display strong problem-solving and communication skills to support safe, reliable accelerator operations
- Ability to maintain a high standard of workmanship through a hands-on approach
- Consciousness of health and safety
Additional Notes:
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Good work ethics
- Excellent analytical thinking skills
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Ability to work under pressure with minimum supervision
- Excellent safety conscience
- Ability to work safely in a laboratory environment
- Availability to work outside regular working hours
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities
Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicants suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Maintenance and repairs
- Use CAD tools
- Fault Finding
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.
iThemba LABS is Africa's leading research facility for accelerator-based science that is committed to advance knowledge, transforming lives and, inspiring the nation through probing fundamental structure and the origins of matter; Advancing the understanding of condensed matter; Impacting the societal need through the provision of radioisotopes for the health sector and isotope analysis for the environmental sector.
