Engineering Technical Assistant

Job description

Purpose:
To support the delivery of the Mechatronic Engineering programme through the preparation and maintenance of laboratories, equipment, and practical learning resources, ensuring effective, safe, and industry-relevant technical training for students.

Key responsibilities
Laboratory setup and maintenance

• Prepare laboratory spaces and ensure all tools, equipment, and materials are ready before practical sessions.
• Regularly inspect, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with safety standards.
• Monitor the condition of laboratory infrastructure and report faults, damages, or hazards to the Academic Manager or Facilities Manager.
• Ensure that laboratories are kept clean, organised, and compliant with health and safety regulations.

Equipment management:

• Keep an accurate inventory of all laboratory tools, components, consumables, and equipment.
• Oversee the proper storage, labelling, and handling of technical equipment and materials.
• Track the use of consumables and initiate timely restocking to prevent shortages.
• Assist with procurement processes for new tools, components, and equipment, including research and liaison with suppliers.

Student support and supervision:

• Support students during practical sessions by guiding the proper and safe use of tools and equipment.
• Supervise students in the workshop/laboratory to ensure adherence to health and safety protocols.
• Provide technical assistance to students in setting up and troubleshooting practical tasks.
• Offer informal mentoring and support for student projects and practical assessments, where appropriate.

Academic staff support:

• Assist lecturers in the preparation, setup, and execution of practical demonstrations and assessments.
• Collaborate with academic staff to design or improve practicals and projects.
• Provide feedback to lecturers regarding equipment performance, student difficulties, or suggestions for improved practical delivery.
• Maintain records of practical sessions, including attendance, incidents, and equipment usage logs.

Safety and compliance:

• Enforce adherence to safety policies, procedures, and risk assessments in all laboratory and workshop activities.
• Ensure all students and staff follow appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols.
• Participate in regular health and safety audits and assist with incident investigations if required.
• Deliver or support the delivery of safety inductions and training for students and new staff.

Training and skills development:

• Receive regular training to stay updated on the operation of new technologies and tools relevant to Engineering.
• Facilitate peer or student training in the use of selected laboratory equipment, software tools, and safety procedures.
• Attend professional development activities and workshops related to technical education and support.

Systems and software support:

• Support students and staff in the setup and operation of laboratory-related software or computer-aided tools.
• Assist in maintaining and updating software required for simulations, diagnostics, or data collection during practical tasks.
• Liaise with IT and academic staff to troubleshoot software or hardware issues encountered in practical sessions.

Contribution to curriculum delivery:

• Assist in aligning laboratory activities with curriculum outcomes by ensuring that practical work complements theoretical learning.
• Provide input during curriculum or module development regarding resource availability, equipment capabilities, and logistics.
• Participate in module reviews by providing feedback on student performance and laboratory effectiveness.

Administrative support:

• Maintain accurate records related to laboratory activities, including equipment maintenance logs, student usage, and technical faults.
• Contribute to the development and updating of lab manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and technical guidelines.
• Assist with the setup and logistics of events such as open days, exhibitions, or student showcases involving engineering demonstrations.

General duties:

• Perform any reasonable task related to the support of laboratory teaching and learning as assigned by the Academic Manager.
• Act as a liaison between academic departments and operations or facilities teams when required.
• Support broader initiatives related to engineering education, community engagement, or outreach programmes where technical expertise is required.

Skills and competencies:

• Strong commitment to effective support and student learning.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage professionally with students, colleagues, and other stakeholders.
• Strong organisational, administrative, time management, and coordination skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
• A high level of computer proficiency, with sound knowledge of information technology systems, digital tools, and online learning platforms.
• The ability to work independently, take responsibility for assigned tasks, and contribute effectively as part of a team.
• Adaptability and resilience, with the ability to respond constructively to change and shifting priorities.
• Willingness to work on Saturdays when required.
• A student-centred approach, with empathy and sensitivity towards students with diverse needs, backgrounds, and different levels of academic preparedness.

Qualifications and experience

• Minimum NQF 7 qualification in mechanical or mechatronic engineering
• Minimum three years of industry experience in a mechatronic engineering-related discipline.
• Knowledge of the HOS act and regulations
• Candidate/ Professional ECSA registration required

Posted on 19 Oct 11:40, Closing date 15 Nov