Job Description

• Contribute to research by rendering desired support to research personnel to ensure successful completion of research projects in compliance with set standards.
• Knowledge of propagation, evaluation and maintenance of plants.
• Preparation of growth media and consumables according to protocol for tissue culture and glasshouse trials.
• Assist in optimizing research and administrative processes in the lab.
• Accurate, and timeous completion of set tasks in line with overall corporate strategy of the ARC.
• Maintain equipment in such a manner that optimal life span is ensured.
• Utilize material and equipment in a cost-effective manner.
• Adheres to quality standards.
• Collects, records data and provides verbal and written feedback on work activities to supervisor.
• Ensure that own and team deadlines are met.
• Assist training of junior staff.
• Visible compliance with HCM policies and procedures.
• Visible compliance with Occupational Health and safety regulations/ procedures.
• Use of proper aseptic techniques for initiation and sub culturing of plant materials.
• Perform correct labelling, culturing and tracking of plant materials and conduct checks to limit errors.
• Pay attention to detail and be precise with repetitive work in order to limit/prevent occurrence of errors in Gene bank processes.
• Keep accurate records of daily operations to ensure traceability.
• Capturing of procedural data on a relevant system in line with quality assurance measures.
• Compile and submit weekly work reports to line manager.
• General cleaning of all areas in the In Vitro Gene bank (i.e. dusting, sweeping, mopping, polishing, cleaning windows and walls).
• Ensure that relevant laboratory glassware and equipment is cleaned, maintained, and stored correctly.
• Assist in preparation for visitors of the Gene bank facility and for exhibitions (when applicable).
• Completion of Performance & Development Agreements (PDAs) and Evaluations (PDEs) with the assistance of line manager.
• Ensure performance targets are achieved.

• Matric with a minimum of three-years experience or Grade 10 with 10 years experience
• Experience in plant tissue culture in a plant tissue culture lab or any other lab will be advantageous.
• Knowledge of laboratory operations and equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory, quarantine and nursery sanitation requirements.
• Writing, reading skills and the ability to accurately record and label samples.
• Ability to work independently, in a team, being pro-active and use of initiative.
• Good written and oral communication skills including ability to work with other members of the same team.
• Willing to learn and improve, and to accept feedback and criticism towards the greater good
• Reliable, self-motivated and a hard worker.
• Knowledge of computer programs (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) would be an advantage.
• Driver's license code B.

Enquiries: Ms Olwethu Madzikane; Tel: (012) 808 800Closing Date for Applications: 24 September 2024Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of drivers license) must be attached on the form.NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees.SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

Agricultural Research Council