About the position

This Laboratory Technician/Technologist position is an exciting position in an innovative agricultural biotechnology (AgBio) company. AgriViro is committed to providing farmers with yield-enhancing microbial products that exceed their expectations while avoiding the environmental harm caused by other products. AgriViro is seeking a dynamic, energetic, and motivated individual who can make a meaningful contribution to our microbial R&D and production. This position may be ideal for you if you are skilled and passionate about microbes, innovative AgBio, and sustainable agriculture. The Laboratory Technician/Technologist in Liquid Fermentation is a vital member of the microbials team, which develops cutting-edge microbial biopesticides. This role is initially open for a Laboratory Technician or Technologist. However, based on the successful applicant’s qualifications, experience, and skills, there is potential to appoint at a Junior Scientist level.

Job Responsibilities

In the context of AgriViro’s biopesticide and microbial product R&D:

• Conduct microbial culturing using aseptic techniques and assess growth and biomass yields employing a variety of methods.
• Execute microbial submerged liquid fermentation processes in laboratory-scale and large-scale bioreactors.
• Perform and manage downstream processing of microbial biomass produced by submerged liquid fermentation.
• Operate large-scale industrial processing equipment effectively and safely.
• Perform quality control assessments of microbial products.
• Work independently to execute tasks and projects after receiving training and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain meticulous records of processes followed and experimental results.
• Report any process issues or problems to line managers clearly and proactively propose suggestions for improvement.
• Write and present research reports.
• Improve laboratory and plant processes and procedures.
• Comply with laboratory safety procedures and OHS&E policies.
• Work and collaborate effectively with other members of the R&D team and other functions across the company.
• Perform administrative and routine functions associated with R&D.

Qualifications, skills, expertise and attributes

We are keen to hear from you if you possess some or most of the following:

• Qualifications:
  • • An undergraduate degree or diploma in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific field, with a strong focus on Microbiology and at least two years’ experience working in a microbiology company or laboratory.
    • BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology or Microbiology, with a project focussing on submerged liquid fermentation or at least one year’s experience working in a microbiology company or laboratory.
• The ideal candidate would have demonstrable expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • • Microbial culturing, aseptic techniques, and assessment of growth and biomass yields using a range of methods.
    • Microbial submerged liquid fermentation, particularly in laboratory-scale or pilot-scale bioreactors.
    • Downstream processing of microbial biomass produced by submerged liquid fermentation.
    • Operation of pilot- or large-scale industrial processing equipment.
• Skills and Attributes:
  • • Proven ability to precisely follow and execute highly-technical instructions and procedures, working methodically with a high level of care and focus.
    • Excellent aseptic techniques and mastery of core microbiology methods.
    • Comfortable to work with and operate highly-technical R&D and pilot-scale equipment.
    • Excellent time management skills.
    • Proficient computer skills with the ability to write technical reports and effectively summarise research findings.
    • Passion for laboratory-based, microbial research.
    • Proven ability to work independently after receiving training and instructions or standard operating procedures, while also being a good team player with good inter-personal skills.
    • Ability to clearly report any process issues or problems to line managers and propose suggestions for improvement.
    • Diligent and hardworking, with the desire and drive to go the extra mile to help the company achieve ambitious R&D outcomes.
    • Resilience and the ability to remain motivated despite the inevitable challenges and setbacks encountered in the R&D process.
    • Energetic, inquisitive, committed, adaptable, and possessing a positive attitude.

Appointment and Work Environment

The successful candidate may be appointed at the level of Laboratory Technician or Technologist or Junior Scientist depending on qualifications and previous work experience. The appointee will be based in the Johannesburg/Sandton area. Travel should be minimal and is expected to account for less than 5% of the job. The work for this position is primarily conducted in a laboratory and plant environment, where regular physical activity is required, including the handling and operation of relatively heavy process equipment. A market-related salary will be offered and there may be an opportunity to participate in an employee share scheme. This position has the potential for career development and more significant responsibilities aligned with the long-term strategic growth of the company.

How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter to careers@agriviro.com; use “Laboratory Technician/Technologist” in the email subject area. Only candidates that meet the desired requirements need apply. Correspondence will be entered into with shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 weeks of the closing date, you may assume your application was unsuccessful. AgriViro reserves the right to not make an appointment if a suitable candidate is not found. Shortlisted applicants must be available for an in-person or online interview.

 Applications close on 14 June 2024.