UP Professional and Support FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCESMAMMAL RESEARCH INSTITUTECONTROL TECHNICAL ASSISTANTPEROMNES POST LEVEL 8 In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.
The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.
RESPONSIBILITIES: To provide administrative and technical assistance and research support to students, staff, and collaborators within the Mammal Research Institute (MRI), with a focus on the Stable Isotope laboratory and Wildlife Management.
The incumbent will be responsible for: Administration and Asset Management Receiving goods from suppliers and deliver to relevant stakeholder(s); Submitting approval for write-off of non-functional equipment.
Write-off when approval is received; Facilitating exporting and receiving research equipment and samples with courier services; Managing and keeping clean storerooms, including stock control and inventory; Financial Administration Searching for equipment and vendors for needed equipment or services; Requesting and preparing quotes for needed equipment and services; Preparing purchase orders and submit them to the relevant stakeholder(s); Arranging for forex payments; Submitting invoices to creditors; Following up on non-payment issues / debtors; Preparing invoices for MRI (including Wildlife Management and Stable Isotope Laboratory) vehicle usage and send accounts to vehicle users; Checking if accounts have been paid and follow up on payments; Requesting and tracing journal transfers; Maintenance of Facilities Arranging for and following-up on repairs and maintenance of physical facilities; Conducting minor equipment maintenance; Fleet Management Managing vehicle bookings, issuing and return of vehicles; Conducting vehicle inspections after each use; Monitoring and ensuring that vehicle users are compliant with MRI guidelines; Conducting minor repairs and report issues to Facilities management; Contacting the Transport Unit for scheduling services, and repairs when required; Providing information to Finance regarding vehicle insurance issues; Facilitating the renewal of licence disks each year with the Transport Unit; Handling the acquisition of new vehicles; Arranging roadworthiness inspections with the Transport Unit; Research Assistance Providing technical assistance and support to MRI staff, associates, fellows, and postgraduate students; Assisting with sample collection, and field equipment maintenance for research; Arranging transportation for students and research equipment to the field; Accompanying students on short field trips for safety and assistance; Occupational Health and Safety Conducting monthly safety inspections and submit reports; Monitoring and reviewing of MRI laboratory safety control measures; Monitoring and ensuring compliance with chemical waste management guidelines; Conducting waste packaging, storage and disposal and arrangements with waste removal service providers; Research and Laboratory management Coordinating the activities and operations of allocated laboratories; Maintaining/updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols for laboratories; Contributing to reports and contribute to publications; Assisting with identifying funding opportunities and writing proposals; Managing the acquisition, repair, and maintenance of equipment; Managing the security and access of the MRI.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Relevant Bachelors or BTech degree in Zoology, or related field / Agriculture / Biochemistry with at least three (3) years relevant experience; ORRelevant National Diploma in Zoology, or related field / Agriculture / Biochemistry with at least five (5) years relevant experience; Experience in managing a laboratory; Financial administration and budgeting experience; Driver's license.
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES): Efficient organisational and administrative skills; Report writing skills; Advanced knowledge in Zoology, Biochemistry & Ecology; Advanced computer literacy (Microsoft suite) and statistical applications; Physical fitness and mobility, including the capability to move heavy objects; Willingness and ability to do ecological fieldwork on foot in the BIG 5 reserves; Ability to convey information clearly and concisely to groups or individuals verbally and in writing; Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with others to encourage and support communication and teamwork for effective completion of goals; Ability to work independently, to accomplish tasks and processes accurately and completely.
ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES: MSc in Zoology or Entomology or a related field; Experience with Stable Isotope analyses and applications; Experience in a laboratory work environment.
PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.
The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.
UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.
Applicants are requested to apply online at In applying for this post, please attach: A comprehensive CV; Certified copies of qualifications; Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.
CLOSING DATE: 16 February 2026 No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.
ENQUIRIES: Ms M Kana, Tel: Email: for application-related enquiries, and Prof A Ganswindt, Email: , for enquiries relating to the post content.
Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 April 2026, 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.
By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.
