Marine Technician:Coastal Craft at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
Through funding from the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the African Coelacanth Ecosystem Programme (ACEP) has built up a marine research platform comprised of state of the art equipment. ACEP makes available and facilitates the use of this equipment for projects among partnering researchers and institutions from around South Africa.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintenance and seaworthiness of vessels and maintenance of associated equipment Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the use and maintenance of the equipmentSkippering of vesselMaintain a safe working environment for platform usersMaintain all safety gear on vessel Manage assets, inventories and equipment loansTrain other SAIAB staff and students to skipper vesselsScheduling & facilitation of tripsAssist platform users with fieldtrip preparation and execution where requiredAssist with any other aspects of SAIAB Marine Platforms as requiredAsset managementStaff Management

Minimum Qualification:

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

Minimum Experience:

• 3-5 years

• Qualification:• Matric• SAMSA >9m Category B Power Driven Vessel Licence• In date STCW (all certificates required for above skippers licence)Experience:• 3 years’ experience in marine skippering, 2 years of which the candidate must have been employed primarily as a skipper of an >9m vessel OR >500 logged skippering hours – logged in a Seaman’s Book
• • Proven experience operating a vessel with diesel inboard engines• Computer literate

Experience:

• Related skills:First Aid (level 3 or higher)STCW certified (full set required for >9m commercial skipper)SAMSA Short range radio certificationDrivers licence

Knowledge:

• Knowledge:Knowledge of weather conditions as related to boatingKnowledge of SAMSA boating and safety regulations and equipmentKnowledge of South African Port operationsAbility to troubleshoot and make adjustments and minor repairs to engines and equipmentMechanical skillsElectronic skills

Additional Notes:
Desirable additional education and work experience:• Experience working with scientists and students• Scientific qualification (BSc or Diploma)• Code EB or higher drivers licence• DOL Commercial diver or dive supervisor qualificationPhysical Requirements• Competent swimmer• The job duties require an employee to bend, stoop, reach, or stand for extended periods.• Good communication skills• Strong logistical skills• The job required the employee to spend long periods (up to 3 weeks) away from homeAdditional Application Information:The full job description can be found on the SAIAB website (www.saiab.ac.za)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 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 Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), based in Makhanda (Grahamstown), is a National Research Facility of the National Research Foundation. SAIAB is a world-renowned centre for the study of African aquatic biodiversity.