Job Title TECHNICAL ASSISTANT.3.04 (AD.13) Location Johannesburg, ZA Organization Name School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences Department Description
FACULTY OF SCIENCE
SCHOOL OF ANIMAL, PLANT AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
TECHNICAL ASSISTANT: ANIMAL ATTENDANT (AD.13)
Job Summary: We seek to appoint an Animal Attendant in the School of Animal, Plant & Environmental Sciences. The incumbent will be responsible for the daily care and husbandry of research animals in our Life Science Museum and animal facility. The position supports behavioural and physiological research programmes through expert animal care, specimen management, and maintenance of research protocol. Other responsibilities will include general driving work to collect/deliver equipment, materials, samples, organisms etc. from suppliers or field sites. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to wildlife research while developing expertise in research animal care and laboratory techniques. The successful candidate will join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing our understanding of animal behaviour and physiology.
Brief Description
- Minimum qualification/requirements
- Matric with Natural/Biological or Agricultural sciences
- Animal 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 animals
- Knowledge of wild animal husbandry and laboratory specimen handling procedures
- Experience with biological sample collection and preservation techniques
- Computer literacy for database management and record keeping
- A valid drivers license
- Understanding of laboratory safety and housekeeping procedures
- Added advantages
- Prior experience with small mammals and snakes specifically will be an added advantage
- Registration with the South African Veterinary Council
- Experience with wildlife rehabilitation or zoo animal care
- Knowledge 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)
- Strong attention to detail and observational skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team
- Physical ability to handle animals safely
- Excellent time management and organisational abilities
- Commitment to animal welfare and ethical research practices
- Work primarily in animal facility environments
- Some weekend and holiday work required for animal care
- Occasional field work for specimen collection
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 required
- Monitor animal health, behaviour and welfare indicators and report concerns to supervisory staff
- Maintain species-specific environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, ventilation and lighting)
- Prepare and administer appropriate diets according to species requirements
- Clean and sanitise animal housing systems, ensuring biosafety protocols are followed
- Assist with animal handling for research procedures under supervision
- Maintain detailed record of animal care activities and observations
- Prepare and supply environmental enrichment for all species according to instructions
- Maintain sample inventories and tracking systems
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment for sample preservation
- Ensure proper chain of custody for research specimen
- Manage sample and tissue databases
- Conduct routine maintenance of animal housing systems
- Maintain inventory of feed, bedding, and consumables
- Provide transportation for equipment, supplies, and specimens as required
Detailed Description Job Requirements Additional Details How To Apply
Applications: Submit a cover letter accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of all educational qualifications and identity document, and the names and email addresses of 3 referees.
To apply: External applicants are invited to apply by registering their profile on the Wits iRecruitment platform located at https://irec.wits.ac.za and submitting applications. Internal applicants are invited to apply directly on Oracle by following the path: iWits/Self Service Applications/"Apply for a job".
Closing date: 23 January 2026
The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.
Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.
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