Chief Officer: Control Technician x1

Chief Officer: Control Technician x1

Chief Officer: Control Technician (Post Level 8) – University of the Free State

• Department of Electronics and Instrumentation
  Job ID: 6366
• Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
• Organizational Unit: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences – Department of Instrumentation and Electronics
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Occupational Level: Junior Management
• Closing Date: 5 March 2026
• Assumption of Duties: As soon as possible
• Salary: Available on request

 Job Overview

The Chief Officer: Control Technician provides advanced mechanical and technical support to various departments within the University. The role focuses on research support, equipment design and manufacturing, maintenance, installation, CNC programming, and workshop operations.

This is a technical, hands-on role requiring strong toolmaking expertise, CNC programming skills, CAD knowledge, and welding competency.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Technical & Mechanical Support

• Provide mechanical assistance to various UFS departments.

• Research, design, and manufacture laboratory and specialized equipment in collaboration with lecturers and postgraduate students.

• Maintain, repair, install, and upgrade laboratory equipment.

Design & Programming

• Perform CAD drawings and designs (e.g., Solid Works).

• Program and operate CNC machines (Mill, Lathe, Plasma, Waterjet, Laser).

• Conduct MIG and TIG welding as required.

Administration

• Maintain time sheets and service records.

• Handle general workshop-related administration tasks.

 Inherent Requirements

• Completed Trade as Tool Maker (Red Seal).

• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience in a mechanical environment.

• Competent in CNC programming and operation.

• Competent in MIG and TIG welding.

• Valid driver’s license.

 Recommendations

• 5 years’ experience working as a toolmaker in a tool room environment.

 Required Competencies

Results-Oriented

• Reliable, responsible, and dependable.

• Maintains composure and self-control.

Strategic Thinking

• Detail-focused and highly organized.

• Able to analyse problems logically and implement effective solutions.

Business Acumen

• Adheres to rules and regulations.

• Proficient in MS Office.

• Strong knowledge of CAD/CAM systems (e.g., Solid Works).

• Broad knowledge of materials and workshop practices.

Leading

• Self-motivated, energetic, and cooperative.

• Encourages teamwork.

Building Coalitions

• Confident in social and professional settings.

• Makes collaborative decisions within supervised frameworks.

 Required Application Documents

• Detailed CV.

• Copies of qualifications (with SAQA accreditation if foreign).

• Copy of ID or passport.

• Proof of employment (letter, contract, service certificate, or payslip).

 Fringe Benefits

(Subject to conditions)

• Pension scheme

• Medical aid

• Group life insurance

• Housing allowance

• Leave and sick leave

• Service bonus

Enquiries:
051 401 9813
Email: PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
Additional assistance: 051 401 2979 / 9810 / 9814