SAPRI Operations Officer at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
SAEON Egagasini Node, based in Cape Town, Western Cape, requires the services of a suitably qualified individual to be responsible for the day-to-day operational and logistical management of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI).

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the day-to-day operational and logistical tasks of the South African Polar Research Infrastructure (SAPRI)
• Provide support and assistance in various services to ensure effective management and sustainable development of SAPRI, focusing on logistical and scientific coordination
• Support the SAPRI manager in operational tasks and reporting, including drafting necessary documentation such as promotional content, progress reports (monthly, quarterly, and annual), and science engagement materials, as well as organising meetings, agendas and minutes
• Coordinate the Supply Chain Management activities at SAPRI to ensure alignment with business objectives and compliance standards
• Maintain an asset register and equipment loan registerMaintain a contract system to monitor contract deliverables and timeframesMaintain a project tracker to support the manager with ongoing subprojects which need follow upsCollaborate closely with key SAPRI stakeholders, including NRF SANAP, DFFE, scientists, and technicians, to facilitate effective communication and coordination

Minimum Qualification:

• Honours Degree / Post Graduate Qualification / Professional Qualification / NQF 8

Minimum Experience:

• 3-4 years

• Honours or BTech in logistics/operations coordination, business management or contract management, alternatively in a marine science discipline but with a strong focus on logistics as this is not a research position

Experience:

• 3 years’ relevant experience in Supply Chain Management, project management, logistics or contract managementDemonstrable ability and coordinating multi-disciplinary and multi-stakeholder teams
• Experience of working within the polar community and a demonstrable understanding of and passion for SANAP science and DFFE Antarctic and Islands logistics
• Occupational Health and Safety certificate would be advantageous
• A valid code B driver’s license

Knowledge:

• Experience of working within the polar community and a demonstrable understanding of SANAP science and DFFE Antarctic and Islands logistics would be advantageousProven understanding of South African Supply Chain Management (SCM) policy and guidelinesProven ability to work as part of a diverse teamProven ability to lead contract drafting, financial reporting and SCM

Additional Notes:
Highly developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to develop collaborative partnerships with both internal and external [URL Removed] ability to synthesize complex material underpinned by high-level written communication skills, to support the development of business/performance plans, progress report submissions, agreements, permit applications and public relations material. Proven understanding of South African Supply Chain Management (SCM) policy and guidelines Proven ability to work with diverse and complex stakeholders and deal with conflicting [URL Removed] ability to work as part of a diverse team Experience in supporting multi-institutional meetingsThe 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