Part-Time Lab Assistant

About

The Department of Architecture and Industrial Design seeks a part-time lab assistant to manage its established MakerSpace and other laboratory facilities in Architecture and Industrial Design. The role supports safe lab operations, equipment maintenance, student mentoring, practicals and prototyping. Applicants need a relevant Advanced Diploma or Bachelor's degree and at least two years' relevant experience. Number of posts: One (1) post available. Terms of service: Part-time; all part-time appointments are limited to a maximum of 19 hours per week. Duty station: Pretoria West Campus. Reference: 26/J71. Salary: Remunerated using the official TUT hourly tariffs. Terms of service: Working hours = 5 days/week for 19 hours x 45 weeks; total hours = 855 hours.

How to apply

Applicants are required to submit, together with the CVs, a fully completed standardized application form available from the university intranet as well as recently certified copies of qualifications and Identity Document. Interested candidates should send their CV, academic record, ID/Passport copy, and certified copies of their highest qualification to: LabuschagneMM@tut.ac.za and GaumT@tut.ac.za.

Responsibilities

• Standard technician duties and responsibilities.
• Facilitate the safe operation of labs.
• Maintenance of lab equipment.
• Ensure that all equipment is treated with care, is not removed without proper authorisation and is returned after use.
• Maintain discipline and safety compliance in the labs.
• Provide reports as required.
• Assist by mentoring students, doing practicals, and building prototypes.
• Ordering of materials, tools and consumables for practicals and prototyping.
• Generating 3rd stream income where applicable.

Qualifications

• An Advanced Diploma or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as Industrial Design, Architecture, Engineering or a related field (NQF level 7 or NQF level 6 qualification).
• A minimum of two (2) years of relevant work experience in a similar role or laboratory experience at a tertiary institution.
• An ability to teach, mentor and guide students in practical and prototyping.
• Industrial skills and workshop practice.
• Computer literate.
• Experience following procurement processes.
• CAD skills.
• Understanding of the tools, equipment, and materials used in the workshop, as well as proficiency in relevant software and technology, is important.
• Familiarity with 3D printing, laser cutting and CNC machines is crucial.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and regulations related to the workshop equipment and materials, such as chemical handling, electrical safety, and personal protective equipment (PPE), is essential.
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to provide technical support and training to students and faculty members.
• Record-keeping, inventory management and scheduling are necessary for this role.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical problems and find solutions quickly and efficiently.
• Working as a member of a coordinated team.
• You must demonstrate a passion for innovation and a strong interest in design and fabrication.