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First Technical Assistant: Agronomy Field Trials and Orchards - Department of Plant and Soil Scienc

Employer
Global Academy Jobs
Location
South Africa
Closing date
Feb 11, 2019

Job Details

Responsibilities:

The First Technical Assistant is responsible for providing research and teaching support to staff and students of the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences through the efficient operation, oversight, day-to-day co-ordination, management and maintenance of the controlled environment facilities, employees, field trials and infrastructure at the Field Trial Unit and orchards on the Hillcrest Experimental Farm of the University of Pretoria. In addition, the incumbent will be required to provide support in the form of planning, co-ordination, technical expertise and facility management for practical sessions for undergraduate courses and faculty research programmes.

 

Minimum Requirements:

 

  • BSc Agric (Applied Plant Sciences) degree, or a BTech Agricultural (Applied Plant Sciences) degree;
  • Five years' experience in:
    • Managing field trials and controlled growth environment facilities (glasshouses, shade net structures, tunnels etc.);
    • Working at an agricultural research orientated institution;
    • The planning, execution and data recording of trials;
    • Pest and weed management;
    • Irrigation/fertigation design and management; 
  • Valid drivers' licence (minimum code B).

 

Requred Competencies (Skills, Knowledge and Behavioural Attributes):

  • Good knowledge of the following:
    • Plant production/research;
    • Pesticide, fungicide and herbicide application;
    • Trial methodology;
    • Project management;
    • Irrigation/fertigation systems;
  • Good plant research techniques;
  • Competent in the working of relevant machines and equipment;
  • IT skills (MS Office and statistical packages);
  • Ability to do minor repairs on equipment and instruments;
  • Leadership and supervision skills;
  • Interpersonal and negotiation skills; 
  • Appropriate language and communication skills; 
  • Ability to work independently with strong problem solving;
  • Conflict management skills;
  • Organisational skills;
  • Be available during vacation periods on a rotational basis to oversee projects, manage facilities and oversee staff.

 

Added Advantages and Preferences:

  • MSc Agric (Applied Plant Sciences) degree, or a MTech Agricultural (Applied Plant Sciences) degree;
  • Three years' experience in:
    • A tertiary or academic environment with research trials on various plants, crops etc;
    • The supervision and mentoring of postgraduate students during planning and execution of research trials;
    • Staff and conflict management;
  • Speak a third (South African) language.

 

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

The total remuneration package for this position ranges from approximately R 402 652 to R 479 584 as determined by UP policy guidelines. (These amounts include the University's contributions to standard UP benefits, namely provident fund, group life and funeral cover, but exclude contributions to medical aid, as the latter varies per employee.) UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid scheme and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium. As part of this position, the incumbent is required to be on site after hours, and is thus eligible for University accommodation (free-standing house) on the experimental farm at a subsidized monthly rental.

In applying for this post, please attach:

  • A comprehensive CV;
  • Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

 

Closing Date:

27 November 2018

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

Enquiries:

Prof Nigel Barker, Tel: (012) 420 2593

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 January 2019, 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. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.

Company

Global Academy Jobs works with over 250 universities worldwide to promote academic mobility and international research collaboration. Global problems need international solutions. Our jobs board and emails reach the academics and researchers who can help.

"The globalisation of higher education continues apace, driving in turn the ongoing development of the global knowledge economy, striving for solutions to the world’s problems and educating a next generation of leaders and contributors."

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