Physics Lab Technician & Lab Operations Lead

Nelson Mandela University; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Job summary

Nelson Mandela University in South Africa seeks a hands-on Laboratory Technician in the Physics Department to manage undergraduate teaching laboratories and equipment, maintain cryogenic and vacuum systems, and support research activities.

The role requires a BSc or equivalent with 3–5 years in a lab or research setting, strong safety knowledge, and the ability to lead assistants and students in practical sessions and demonstrations, while ensuring OHASA compliance and handling procurement tasks.

Qualifications

• BSc or equivalent qualification in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related technical field with 3–5 years of relevant technical experience, preferably in a laboratory or research environment.
• Demonstrated practical experience in operation, maintenance, fault diagnosis and repair of scientific and experimental equipment, including vacuum systems and cryogenic equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare, set up, calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment and undergraduate experiments, and provide technical support during practical teaching sessions, demonstrations and laboratory assessments.
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety and occupational health and safety requirements, including the management of radioactive sources, hazardous materials and waste.
• Successful completion of a competency assessment will be required.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise in operation, servicing, fault diagnosis and repair of experimental, vacuum, and cryogenic systems.
• Design, assemble and implement undergraduate experiments and specialised research apparatus.
• Oversee daily laboratory operations, including setup, calibration and ensuring all equipment is functional and ready for teaching and research.
• Support and conduct practical sessions, including demonstrations and administration of laboratory assessments and marks.
• Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, including responsibility for radioactive sources, hazardous materials and waste disposal.
• Manage procurement processes, including sourcing of equipment, spare parts, gases, CAPEX items and maintaining accurate financial records.
• Maintain comprehensive technical, operational and regulatory documentation, including inventory, licensing and reporting requirements.

Skills

Laboratory equipment operation

Technical troubleshooting

Communication skills

OHASA knowledge

Education

BSc or equivalent (Physics/Engineering)

Tools

MS Office

Spreadsheets

Job description

Nelson Mandela University in South Africa seeks a hands-on Laboratory Technician in the Physics Department to manage undergraduate teaching laboratories and equipment, maintain cryogenic and vacuum systems, and support research activities.

The role requires a BSc or equivalent with 3–5 years in a lab or research setting, strong safety knowledge, and the ability to lead assistants and students in practical sessions and demonstrations, while ensuring OHASA compliance and handling procurement tasks.