Technical Assistant, Outdoor/Nature/Animal Care
Job in
Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
Listing for:
Wits University
Full Time
position
Listed on 2026-01-19
Job specializations:
-
Outdoor/Nature/Animal Care
-
Research/Development
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Position: TECHNICAL ASSISTANT.3.04 (AD.13) (AD.13.5)
Brief Description
Minimum qualification/requirementsMatric with Natural/Biological or Agricultural sciencesAnimal handling certificates (i.e. Introductory course in laboratory animal sciences)A keen interest in animal care, with a minimum two-years hand on experience caring for laboratory or research animalsKnowledge of wild animal husbandry and laboratory specimen handling proceduresExperience with biological sample collection and preservation techniquesComputer literacy for database management and record keepingA valid driver’s licenseUnderstanding of laboratory safety and housekeeping proceduresAdded advantagesPrior experience with small mammals and snakes specifically will be an added advantageRegistration with the South African Veterinary CouncilExperience with wildlife rehabilitation or zoo animal careKnowledge of South African animal welfare legislation (Animal Protection Act, NSPCA guidelines)Training in laboratory animal science (FELASA or equivalent certification)Experience with specialised housing systems (climate-controlled environments, quarantine facilities)Personal Attributes
Strong attention to detail and observational skillsAbility to work independently and as part of a research teamPhysical ability to handle animals safelyExcellent time management and organisational abilitiesCommitment to animal welfare and ethical research practicesWorking Conditions
Work primarily in animal facility environmentsSome weekend and holiday work required for animal careOccasional field work for specimen collectionKey Job Functions
Animal care and husbandry:
Provide daily care for animals housed in the Life Sciences Museum and for research animals including insects, small mammals, reptiles (particularly snakes), and other species as requiredMonitor animal health, behaviour and welfare indicators and report concerns to supervisory staffMaintain species-specific environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, ventilation and lighting)Prepare and administer appropriate diets according to species requirementsClean and sanitise animal housing systems, ensuring biosafety protocols are followedAssist with animal handling for research procedures under supervisionMaintain detailed record of animal care activities and observationsPrepare and supply environmental enrichment for all species according to instructionsSpecimen and sample management
Maintain sample inventories and tracking systemsOperate and maintain laboratory equipment for sample preservationEnsure proper chain of custody for research specimenManage sample and tissue databasesFacility Operations
Conduct routine maintenance of animal housing systemsMaintain inventory of feed, bedding, and consumablesProvide transportation for equipment, supplies, and specimens as requiredDetailed Description
Job Requirements Additional Details
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