(Based at the Grasslands-Forests - Wetlands Node in Pietermaritzburg) Field Technicians together with scientists develop the observation platform and collect data as part of the process to provide long-term reliable data that will be used for scientific research and decision making. These collections will assist the Node to deliver on its objectives.

Key responsibilities will include:

 Provide technical expertise and support to the nodes internal and collaborative activities

 Perform accurate, reliable and uninterrupted monitoring and data collections that includes:

 Apply sound, reliable data management procedures through:

 Proficient equipment and instrumentation development, installation, care & management (including trouble shooting, calibration and problem solving).

 Competent general maintenance of research infrastructure (buildings, stilling shuts weirs, instrument array boreholes etc.)

 Supervision of temporary labor teams in relation to monitoring platform infrastructure maintenance activities.

 Assist with fleet and asset management for the Grasslands-Forests-Wetlands and Node.

 Perform Administrative, financial and logistical tasks pertaining to equipment, instrumentation, fleet, assets and infrastructure.

 Take responsibility for technical logistics and associated administration of routine activities.

 Provide general logistical and administrative support to science programs and student projects when required.

 Assist students, collaborators and research projects as and when required with (logistics, constructing sampling equipment,
field work, technical, administrative support).

 Provide assistance with the node’s education, training and communication programs.

 Completed BSc Hon. Degree or B-Tech Degree, in Hydrology/ Meteohydrology or Environmental Sciences, OR at least four
years demonstrated experience in field in a similar or related position.

 At least two years intensive field and technical experience in hydrological monitoring (that involves instrument set ups, maintenance, data downloading). Proficiency in electrics and/or instrument logger programming is advantageous.

 Computer literacy in the MS Office suite.

 Valid code EC drivers’ license.

 Sound record of 4x4 and gravel road driving experience.

 Language proficiency in English

 Willingness to travel, camp and work for extended periods away from home, with minimal comfort, in remote field conditions
often involving water and sometimes dangerous game.

 Physical fitness (able to walk in steep mountainous terrain – 7km within a day with ease).

A practical assessment will be conducted by the shortlisted candidates where there technical skills and aptitude will be tested as part of the Applications should include detailed Curriculum vitae, covering letter and contact details of at least three referees. Applicants who have previously applied for this post need not do so again. Completed application forms must accompany your application. Forms can be downloaded from the SAEON webpage
Applications should be forwarded to leazill@saeon.ac.za or alternatively posted to SAEON, P.O. Box 2600, Pretoria, 0001, Attention: Human Resources. Posted applications must reach SAEON on or before the specified closing date.

Closing date for receiving applications: 3 February 2015

SAEON is committed to employment equity and redress. SAEON reserves the right not to make an appointment to the position as advertised.

- General sampling and monitoring activities as required,

- Schedule downloading of data from instrumentation array and

- Logistical planning and implementation of field activities when required.

- Collection, entering, checking and processing of field data (sampling and instrumentation downloads).

- Proficient use and implementation of SAEON information management systems

- Contribute to securing and processing relevant data and information for the node