The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that develops and diffuses technologies to accelerate socio-economic prosperity in South Africa. This role is part of the Bioprocess Development Research Group within the Future Production Chemicals cluster. The position is based in Pretoria. Technical Assistant (Two-year contract) Key Responsibilities Provide technical support to research and technical staff; Encompass lab work or field work; Perform research activities aligned to specified duties; Prepare, monitor, and sample bioreactors; Operate bioprocess equipment according to standard operating procedures (SOPs); Analyse and interpret experimental results; Execute planned experiments/fermentation runs; Contribute to the writing and implementation of SOPs and technical reports;Manage raw material inventory; Work with chemicals and biologicals; Perform routine general microbiology. Qualifications, Skills and Experience A Bachelor's degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, chemical engineering or a related discipline with at least two years experience in bioprocessing or biomanufacturing; An Honours degree would be advantageous; At least two years' experience within the bioprocessing field; Knowledge and experience with working on fungal strains; Ability to multi-task and perform consistently under pressure; Must be competent in their field of study, evidence of theoretical and practical knowledge; Good analytical and problem‑solving skills; Must be able and willing to work shifts as and when required (morning, afternoon or night) as per the nature of work within the bio‑manufacturing team; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Must be able to work in a team; Computer literacy in MS Office Package; All international qualifications require an evaluation report / certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). What’s in it for you? The CSIR Offers Learning and development opportunities; Competitive and market‑related remuneration packages; We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards. We are an equal opportunity employer. The CSIR is committed to the Employment Equity Act and will give preference to candidates from Designated Groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act. By applying for this position at the CSIR, the applicant understands, and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from registered credit bureau and/or South African Police Services (in relation to positions that require trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances), and may also verify the applicant's educational qualification and employment history. The CSIR reserves the right to remove the advertisement at any time before the stated closing date and further reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified. #J-18808-Ljbffr