About the position
Postion Summary:
The SAEON Elwandle Node, based in Gqeberha requires the services of a dynamic, self-motivated Marine Technician to provide technical and logistic support for its various research and long-term observation activities in the field, the laboratory and at the Ocean Sciences Campus premises.
Key Responsibilities:
- Planning and execution of field trip activities in collaboration with project leaders, specifically the preparation and handling of equipment such as sampling gear and scientific instruments
- Oversee / participate in diving operations and skippering of various coastal research vessels
- Servicing and calibration of field and observational instruments
- Implementation and management of mooring and instrumentation deployments at various sentinel and satellite sites along the SA coastline
- Health and safety, including risk assessment and associated safety procedures; in the field, laboratory and at the premises
- Assisting with the collection and recording of scientific measurements, including physical data and biological information, according to standard scientific procedures and best-practice protocols
- Assistance with record keeping, data capture and data processing
- Occasional assistance with the sorting of biological material and the preparation of specimens for laboratory analysis
- Assisting with other SAEON activities, e
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- science engagement, as may be specified by the Manager from time to time
Minimum Qualification:
- Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7
Minimum Experience:
- BTech or BSc in the biological sciences or equivalent qualification
- Essential requirements include a valid driver’s license with appropriate driving and towing experience and willingness to obtain a heavy-duty driving license
- A SAMSA Category C, D, or R skippers ticket with some skippering experience
- A Category B ticket would be advantageous
- A Class IV / V commercial diver qualification or demonstrable willingness to obtain (Dive Supervisor qualification would be advantageous)
- Ability to independently and efficiently plan, maintain and manage various deployments of offshore moorings and instrumentation around the SA coastline
- Ability to adhere strictly to safety regulations and to contribute to the overall safety and security of field operations
- Capacity to multi-task and manage time between multiple projects and activities
- Proficiency in all aspects of oceanographic equipment (maintenance, setup, operation, data acquisition and processing, troubleshooting)
- Willingness to spend time away from the office in the field, either along the coast or at sea
- A good command of English with good communication & writing skills is a necessity
Experience:
- Experience and associated skills relevant to the maintenance of small vessels and trailers
- Driving and towing experienceSuitable skippering competence and commensurate experience to undertake scientific fieldwork without compromising safety
Knowledge:
- Safety and security of field operations
- Sound understanding of Regulations governing diving, boating, aviation, Health & Safety and procurement
Additional Notes:
The position requires an employee to bend, stoop, reach, or stand for extended [URL Removed] position requires an employee to lift and move heavy [URL Removed] 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 applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
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. The South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) is a research platform funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF) since 2002. SAEON is mandated to observe and research ecosystems on land, in coastal regions and the oceans to understand how those systems function and might change over time and space when influenced by socio-economic driving forces including climate change. We deliver our data online and offer tools, services and advice for informed environmental policy-making.
