About the Role
The Department of Water and Sanitation is looking for a dedicated Scientific Technician: Production Grade A – C to join their team in Kimberley. This pivotal role focuses on geohydrological functions essential for managing and protecting South Africa’s precious water resources. As a Scientific Technician, you will contribute directly to safeguarding the groundwater quality that sustains local communities and ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of your work within public service.
In this role based in the heart of the Northern Cape, you will engage in a variety of technical and scientific tasks that require a keen understanding of groundwater systems. You will be responsible for the operational standards and methodologies that ensure effective data collection and analysis, which are integral for informed decision-making. Your contributions will not only enhance the groundwater monitoring network but also promote public awareness of scientific activities, helping to build a more sustainable future for all South Africans.
About the Department
The Department of Water and Sanitation plays a crucial role in the sustainable management of the nation’s water resources. With a mandate to ensure that South Africa’s water is managed effectively, the department focuses on water quality and resource protection, essential for both human and environmental health. Working in this department means being part of a mission that impacts millions of lives, making every day meaningful as you contribute to the wellbeing of the community.
What You’ll Do
- Perform technical scientific and geohydrological tasks within an established framework.
- Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures.
- Identify gaps in the groundwater monitoring network and develop appropriate interventions.
- Participate in research activities and field surveys for data collection.
- Maintain, calibrate, and operate scientific equipment.
- Provide geohydrological technical support and advice to various stakeholders.
- Develop and maintain working relations with clients to extend the client base.
- Promote public awareness of groundwater issues and scientific activities.
- Prepare and compile technical reports and research proposals.
- Supervise technical support staff and ensure performance management and development.
What You’ll Need
- A National Diploma in Natural/Water Groundwater/Geohydrology or a relevant qualification.
- A minimum of three (3) years’ post-qualification technical scientific experience in groundwater.
- Compulsory registration with SACNASP as a Certificated Natural Scientist.
- A valid unexpired driver’s license.
- Strong understanding of groundwater resources management and related policies.
- Knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, and integrated water resource management principles.
- Excellent problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficiency in computer-aided scientific applications and data analysis.
How to Apply
Please refer to the application instructions below.
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Requirements
A National Diploma in Natural /Water Groundwater/ Geohydrology related Sciences or relevant qualification.Three (3) years’ post qualification technical scientific experience in groundwater.
Compulsory registration with SACNASP as Certificated Natural Scientist.
The disclosure of a valid unexpired driver’s license.
Understanding of program and project management.
Scientific methodologies and models.
Research and development.
Computer-aided scientific applications.
Knowledge of groundwater resources management is essential.
Extensive experience in water management, Environmental field, urban development, agricultural, waste management and mining.
Understanding of department’s role and function with respect to Water Quality and Water Resources Protection.
Knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998 and related policies, strategies and guidelines.
Understanding of principles of integrated Water Resource Management.
Experience in minimizing the impacts from industries, agriculture, urban development and mining.
Computer literacy.
Innovative thinking.
Negotiation skills.
Good written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of legal compliance.
Technical report writing.
Data analysis.
Scientific presentation.
Decision making.
Customer focus and responsiveness.
Problem solving.
Job Duties
Perform technical scientific and geohydrological functions and tasks that require interpretation in the presence of an established framework.Apply operational standards and consolidate methodologies, policies, systems and procedures.
Identify gaps and develop appropriate interventions and extension of the groundwater monitoring network.
Preparation and participation in research activities.
Data collection through field surveys.
Maintenance, calibration and operation of scientific equipment.
Provide Geohydrological technical support and advice.
Develop working relations with client base and extend client base.
Promote public awareness of scientific activities.
Provide technical/scientific data, information and advice.
To perform technical scientific analysis and regulatory functions.
Preparation of data and routine interpretation.
Database and data management.
Analysis of technical scientific data.
Dissemination of information.
Apply the appropriate scientific and technical procedures/skills to generate information and knowledge.
Formulate proposals and compile reports.
Research and development.
Continuous professional development to keep up with new technologies and procedures.
Equipment reviews and procurement of new equipment.
Research/literature studies to improve expertise.
Publish and present technical reports and research findings.
Liaise with relevant bodies/councils on Geohydrological related matters.
Supervise technical support and processes.
Manage the performance management and development of staff.
All duties will be performed in a Geohydrological environment.
