Laboratory Assistant - Department of Production Animal Studies

University of Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 20 000 - 40 000; Full time

Job summary

An established institution seeks a Laboratory Assistant to support veterinary science education. This role involves setting up and maintaining laboratory equipment, assisting with practical sessions, and ensuring compliance with biosecurity standards. The ideal candidate will possess a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and safety protocols, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Join a dynamic team dedicated to excellence in veterinary education and research, where your contributions will directly impact the learning experience of students and the quality of laboratory operations.

Benefits

Medical Aid Contributions

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Two years hands-on experience in a veterinary or biological laboratory setting.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety procedures and protocols.

Responsibilities

• Setting up equipment for practical sessions and examinations.
• Performing laboratory procedures under supervision of senior technicians.
• Maintaining laboratory stock items and biosecurity standards.

Skills

Laboratory Instrumentation

Biohazardous Waste Handling

Occupational Health and Safety

Data Entry

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Grade 12 Certificate

Certificate in Good Laboratory Practices

Qualification in Biological Technology

Tools

Microscopes

Centrifuges

Job description

UP Professional and Support

FACULTY OF VETERINARY SCIENCE

DEPARTMENT OF PRODUCTION ANIMAL STUDIES

LABORATORY ASSISTANT

PEROMNES POST LEVEL 12

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the above-mentioned vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will actively participate in the following areas:

• Setting-up equipment and consumables prior to under- and postgraduate student practical sessions and examinations, render assistance during sessions and clean areas and equipment thereafter according to biosecurity standards;
• Perform various laboratory procedures including, but not limited to semen processing, preparation of semen extenders, stains, guarded swabs and other veterinary reproductive products used and sold by the section of reproduction under the supervision of senior technicians;
• Monitoring temperatures of various fridges, freezers and equipment, maintain laboratory stock items and maintain liquid nitrogen storage flasks according to standard operational procedures;
• Maintaining biosecurity standards by cleaning laboratory floors and work surfaces, equipment, glassware, reproductive consumables (e.g. catheters & speculums), biohazard-, sharps- and general waste bins;
• General messenger, delivery and collection duties including, but not limited to documents, samples, equipment and abattoir material; and
• Performing extended working hours and weekend duties when required.
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 certificate;
• Two years hands-on experience in a veterinary or biological laboratory setting;
• A driver licence with no history of condonement; and
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety procedures and protocols.
  
  

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Knowledge on using laboratory instruments, such as microscopes, centrifuges, etc;
• Proficiency in biohazardous waste handling and safe handling of biological samples and specimens;
• Knowledge on Occupational Health and Safety and Good Laboratory Practise standards;
• Basic data entry and computer literacy;
• Physical ability towards handling heavy laboratory equipment;
• Good communication and people skills;
• Prepared to work extended hours and be able to work on own initiative; and
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
  
  

Added Advantages And Preferences

• Appropriate certificate in Good Laboratory Practices; and/or Occupational Health and Safety; and/or Biosecurity standards;
• Appropriate qualification in Biological-, Laboratory- and/or Medical Technology; and
• Proficiency of using laboratory equipment, laboratory techniques and/or semen processing technologies.
  
  

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: Careers@UP.

In Applying For This Post, Please Attach

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Copy of driver’s license; and
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
  
  

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

CLOSING DATE: 21 May 2025

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms Granny Maseko, [e-mail] for application-related enquiries and Mr M Smuts, [phone] for enquiries relating to post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 July 2025 please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under- represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right not to make an appointment to the posts as advertised.