Principal Technical Officer
Rhodes University
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Permanent
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Posted 14 November 2024 - Closing Date 26 November 2024

Job Details

Job Description

Principal Technical Officer (Grade 12)

Biochemistry Microbiology & Bioinformatics

The Department of the Biochemistry Microbiology & Bioinformatics invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

Management of the Undergraduate Facility, entailing responsibility for the daily running of the facility and the weekly practical sessions provide technical support to the postgraduate facility in conjunction with the technical staff.

The Requirements
A Bachelor’s Degree in Science (Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) PLUS approximately 4 years ‘relevant experience where such experience includes: -
  • Previous experience of the analytical procedures and scientific methods used in the fields of Microbiology and/or Biochemistry at the undergraduate level
  • Previous hands-on experience in Molecular Biology techniques
  • Previous research experience in the fields of Microbiology and/or Biochemistry would be an advantage.
  • At least one year of previous working experience in laboratory management is essential
  • Experience working in a computerized environment
  • Previous experience in ordering stock and maintaining laboratory equipment as well as running undergraduate practicals in Microbiology and Biochemistry will be an advantage
  • Previous applicable staff supervision experience

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

  • A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: -
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
  • A strong and succinct motivation which tells us your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
Please note, no hand-written applications will be considered. Failure to submit all documentation will result in an application being disqualified. 

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to [email protected].

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

  • Short-listing meeting scheduled for the TBC
  • The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
  • Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 12):

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum:                          R440,529.00

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R585,785.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three-years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.


Rhodes University has a vaccination mandate as part of its Conditions of Service.  The implementation of the vaccine mandate has been held in abeyance from 01 January 2023.  Should the COVID-19 situation change in a way that the number of cases of COVID-19 pose a threat to the University, the implementation of the Vaccine Mandate will be re-activated and all staff would be required to be fully vaccinated.

Closing Date: 26 November 2024

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply. Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act of 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2022 and the University's Recruitment and Selection policies.


Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.
These values are:
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion