PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

The Laboratory and Safety Coordinator is essential to ensure the efficient, safe, and legally compliant operation of the research facilities at the Biochemistry subject group and Biomedical and Molecular Metabolism Research (BioMMet). This role will provide dedicated oversight to laboratory operations, enforce safety protocols, and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.    Laboratory safety

• Audits, reports, meetings, inspections, legal compliance, supervision, after-hours availability, incident investigation, risk assessment, advanced safety courses.

2.    Research and innovation:

• Reception, handling and distribution of chemicals and consumables.

3.    Building and laboratory infrastructure & machinery

• Legal compliance, record keeping, maintenance, asset management, monitoring freezer breakdowns (after-hours).

4.    Bio (human and animal) sample management

• Implement and maintain the necessary legal requirements related to the shipping, handling, tracking and disposal of biological (human and animal) samples.

5.    Waste management

• Legal compliance, disposal, chemical handling (dangerous materials), storage.

6.    Laboratory Administration

• Knowledge of KFS, general administration, record keeping.

7.    Ad hoc tasks

• As directed by the Deputy Director.

8.    Occupational Health and Safety

• Under health and safety law, each employee must take care of their health and safety and that of others who may be affected by the employee’s actions/omissions at work.

• Grade 12 (NQF level 4) 
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in general administration duties and asset management. 

RECOMMENDATIONS/ ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Basic laboratory safety and management 
• Knowledge of chemical handling 

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Problem solving, identifying issues & resolving 
• Effective time management
• Effective communication skills with students, colleagues & NWU Stakeholders
• Excellent computer skills with proven competency in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Language proficient in a multi-lingual environment

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to effectively work independently and in a team 
• Ability to function under pressure
• Natural innovator who strives for ‘best practice’ and technical advancement service.

REMUNERATION:

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:                   Ms. Ronelle Naude, Tel: 018 299 2314

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr. Zenyo Seboko, Tel: 018 299 4951

CLOSING DATE:                                                                               12 January 2026

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                           As soon as possible

Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website.

Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.