Picture
 
COUNCIL FOR GEOSCIENCE (CGS)
 
SENIOR SCIENTIST: MINERALOGY
Peromnes Grade: P07 (R 896 095,59 CTC Per Annum)
Location: Pretoria Office
Reporting Line: Manager – Analytical Services

Overall Job Purpose: Execute business unit strategy, as well as perform mineralogical analysis of geological materials using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscopy (SEM) within the Analytical Services Unit, Council for Geoscience.

 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Implement the CGS Analytical Services strategy which is aligned with the CGS organisational strategy
  • Adhere to an effective laboratory quality management system that is compliant to applicable ISO standards
  • Perform analysis of a wide range of geological (rocks, ores, and soil) and synthetic materials using XRD, SEM/EPMA, and other supplementary mineralogical techniques.
  • Characterisation and analysis of clays and other industrial minerals used in ceramics/refractories, aggregates and other industrial applications.
  • Provide the stakeholders with mineralogical expertise.
  • Ensure the accuracy of the analysis output by applying quality control protocols in sample preparation and analysis, data interpretation and evaluation
  • Compile standard operating procedures and analytical test methods
  • Undertake advanced geoscientific research which includes project management and project implementation
  • Initiate and develop geoscientific project proposals for both statutory and commercial work
  • Compile contract proposals, negotiate extensions of existing commercial contracts and provide inputs towards the compilation of contract proposals.
  • Present research results at major conferences locally and internationally
  • Publish results of investigations in CGS publications and/ or recognised journals.
  • Evaluate the results, edit reports for publication by junior scientists, and prepare work for publication by the CGS.
  • Provide geoscientific advice to the public and private sector organisations.
  • Supervise and provide guidance in the execution of projects by junior scientists.
  • Mentor and coach junior scientists.
 
KEY ATTRIBUTES
  • Ability to conduct complex geo-scientific investigations and research independently.
  • Ability to interpret, evaluate and assess research data.
  • Ability to evaluate and assess research work and reports of other scientists.
  • Ability to compile and present geo-scientific research investigations at national and internally forums.
  • Ability to develop and present geo-scientific project proposals
  • Ability to present and develop geo-scientific contractual proposals.
  • Ability to lead and manage geo-scientific projects.
  • Ability to lead and manage project team(s).
  • Ability to mentor and coach other scientists.
  • Knowledge of ISO standards.
 
KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Experience in ISO 17025 and ISO 9001 and other relevant quality management systems.
  • Knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations.
  • Experience in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) software.
  • Experience in X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscopy (SEM/EPMA)
  • Experience in Automated SEM will be advantageous
  • Experience in characterisation, analysis of clays and other industrial minerals used in ceramics/refractories, aggregates and other industrial applications.
  • Experience in project management will be advantageous
  • Knowledge of solid and liquid samples preparations, laboratory analysis and techniques and associated data evaluation.
  • Knowledge of scientific principles applicable to laboratory operations including analytical test methods, laboratory logistics and samples.
 
EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum BSc Hons in geology, geochemistry or mineralogy plus 8 years’ experience working in geoscientific laboratory or relevant/ MSc in geology, geochemistry or mineralogy plus 5 years’ experience/ PhD in geology, geochemistry or
  • mineralogy plus 3 years’ experience
  • Professional Natural Scientist registration with SACNASP
  • Valid driver’s license
 


The Council for Geoscience is committed to Employment Equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity prescripts, preference will be given but not limited to candidates from under represented designated groups. Females and people from previously disadvantaged groups and sectors are encouraged to apply.
 
If you meet the above requirements and wish to apply, please send your application to careers@geoscience.org.za . Please quote the position title (Senior Scientist).
 
Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not been contacted within eight (8) weeks after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
 
All shortlisted candidates will be vetted. Appointments are subject to positive vetting results.

Closing Date: 21 June 2021