Marine Technician (Skipper) at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
The South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) Elwandle Node, based in Gqeberha, requires the services of a dynamic, self-motivated Marine Technician (Skipper) on a 3 year long term contract to operate and maintain its various vessels as well as provide technical support for its various research and long-term observation activities in the field and at the Ocean Sciences Campus premises.

Key Responsibilities:

• Primary focus is the operation and maintenance of the Node’s fleet of sea-going and estuarine vessels
• Assist with the servicing and maintenance of various research and Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) programmes
• Ensure that health and safety protocols for boating activities are in place and maintained
• 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
• g
• science engagement, as may be specified by the Manager from time to time

Minimum Qualification:

• Grade 12 / Senior Certificate / National Certificate / Vocational 4 /N3 N4 N5/ NQF 4

Minimum Experience:

• 3-5 years

• Essential requirements include a valid driver’s license with appropriate driving and towing experience and willingness to obtain a heavy duty (EC) driving license
• A SAMSA Category B
• An >9m (
• A diving qualification with willingness to obtain a Class IV diving qualification (Dive Supervisor qualification would be advantageous)
• Capacity to multi-task and manage time between multiple projects and activities
• A good command of English with good communication & writing skills is a necessity

Experience:

• Some experience and associated skills relevant to the maintenance of small vessels and trailers
• Willingness to spend time away from the office in the field, either along the coast or at sea
• The position requires an employee to bend, stoop, reach, or stand for extended periods
• The position requires an employee to lift and move heavy objects

Knowledge:

• Ability to efficiently plan and execute sea trips efficiently and safely with an overarching regard for safety
• Ability to adhere strictly to safety regulations and to contribute to the overall safety and security of field operations

Additional Notes:
Applications should include an abbreviated Curriculum Vitae, not more than 1 page, detailing diving qualifications and accumulated diving time, cover letter and contact details of at least three references. To be uploaded as one document as part of your application on the recruitment portal [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 and Innovation (DSI) 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.