Laboratory Technician – Biotechnology Jobs in Kempton Park

Plennegy (Pty) Ltd (Starke Ayres Division); Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Plennegy (Pty) Ltd (Starke Ayres Division) in Kempton Park is seeking a Laboratory Technician in Biotechnology to support routine lab and greenhouse activities. You will assist the Biotechnology team with genotyping, analysis, and reporting on various projects, under the supervision of the Biotechnology Lab Manager.

Requirements include a National Diploma/BTech/BSc related field and 1 year in molecular biology; 1–3 years in plant genetics is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in a related field is essential.
• 1 year in molecular biology lab preferred (graduate placement or internship).
• 2–3 years in plant genetics or molecular biology is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Label sample plates accurately.
• Prepare samples for DNA extraction (seed cutting, germination, sampling).
• Use DNA extraction buffers for different crops and samples.
• Choose protocols and operate DNA extraction instruments.
• Perform DNA extraction and dilution processes.
• Maintain and update lab journals daily.
• Conduct routine maintenance of lab equipment (centrifuges, Oktopure, pipettes, fridges).
• Organize SNP markers in freezers.
• Dispose of laboratory waste properly and maintain cleanliness.
• Store documentation accurately and systematically.
• Collaborate with team members and provide guidance when needed.

Skills

MS Office

MS Teams

MS Excel

Organizational skills

Problem solving

DNA extraction

PCR techniques

Education

National Diploma / BTech / BSc Agric or related field

BTech / BSc / BSc Agric degree (NQF Level 7)

Tools

DNA extraction instruments

PCR machines

Centrifuges

Pipettes

Fridges

Job description

Company: Plennegy (Pty) Ltd (Starke Ayres Division)Location: East Rand (Kempton Park)

Introduction

Starke Ayres is a leading African specialist and global supplier of premium vegetable, flower, and lawn seed varieties for both commercial and home gardening. An exciting opportunity has become available for a Laboratory Technician in Biotechnology, based in Kempton Park.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this role is to support routine laboratory and greenhouse activities within the Research Laboratories. The successful candidate will assist the Biotechnology team in genotyping, analyzing, and reporting on various projects.

Job Context

The role involves working closely with the Biotechnology Lab Manager, Biotechnologists, and Breeders to prepare samples for DNA extraction, enabling accurate genotyping and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Label sample plates accurately
• Prepare samples for DNA extraction (seed cutting, germination, root/leaf/flesh sampling)
• Use appropriate DNA extraction buffers for different crops and sample types
• Select correct protocols and operate DNA extraction instruments
• Perform DNA extraction and dilution processes
• Maintain and update lab journals daily
• Conduct routine maintenance of lab equipment (centrifuges, Oktopure, pipettes, fridges, etc.)
• Organize SNP markers in freezers
• Dispose of laboratory waste properly and maintain cleanliness
• Store documentation accurately and systematically
• Collaborate effectively with team members and maintain professional relationships
• Provide support and guidance to colleagues when required

Requirements

• National Diploma in B Tech / BSc Agric / BSc in a related field (essential)
• 1 year experience in a molecular biology lab (graduate placement or internship)
• 1-3 years experience in plant genetics or molecular biology (advantageous)
• B Tech / BSc / BSc Agric degree (NQF Level 7) (advantageous)

Skills

• Proficiency in MS Office and MS Teams
• Strong MS Excel skills
• Good organizational and execution abilities
• Problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of DNA extraction and PCR techniques

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