Durban University of Technology Technical Assistant Vacancy – Laboratory and Research Support

The Faculty of Applied Sciences at Durban University of Technology is hiring a Technical Assistant in the Department of Biotechnology & Food Technology. This is a great entry-level opportunity for someone who wants to grow in academic research support and technical laboratory operations.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for this role, you need one of the following qualifications:

• National Diploma in Biotechnology or a related field
• BAppSc in Biotechnology
• BSc in Microbiology or Biochemistry
• Equivalent qualification in a biosciences-related discipline

What You’ll Need to Succeed

While technical skills matter, DUT is also looking for someone with the right attitude and soft skills to thrive in a busy academic lab environment.

Recommended Skills and Attributes:

• Strong service ethic and accountability
• Ability to work independently and show initiative
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken)
• Basic computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Email, etc.)

Key Responsibilities

As a Technical Assistant, you’ll support teaching and research activities in the lab. This includes helping students, preparing samples, maintaining equipment, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Your duties will include:

1. Laboratory Support

• Prepare biological samples for experiments and student practicals
• Set up lab equipment and materials before sessions
• Clean, maintain, and store laboratory glassware and tools
• Assist students and staff with lab equipment
• Handle and discard waste safely
• Help clean labs and departmental storerooms
• Collect and deliver lab materials and equipment when needed

2. Inventory & Stock Control

• Monitor consumables and reorder supplies when needed
• Keep biohazard and cleaning materials stocked
• Manage and replace gas cylinders for the lab

3. Health & Safety Compliance

• Follow lab safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE
• Participate in safety drills and help maintain a safe working environment

4. Administrative Support

• Assist with basic admin tasks in the department
• Help the Head of Department, Technicians, or Academics with other duties as required

Why Join DUT?

Durban University of Technology is one of South Africa’s leading universities of technology, known for producing graduates who are both skilled and employable. Working at DUT gives you:

• Exposure to cutting-edge research environments
• A chance to gain experience supporting academics and students
• Long-term growth opportunities in laboratory management, academic support, or technical training
• A stable, permanent role within the higher education sector

How to Apply

To apply for this position:

Visit the DUT Careers Portal or the official DUT website, locate the job listing under the Faculty of Applied Sciences, and follow the instructions to submit your application.

Closing Date: Thursday, 17 April 2025

If you haven’t heard back within two weeks of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.