North-West University Senior Technician Vacancy 2026 – Apply Today

North-West University (NWU) is inviting applications for a Senior Technician position at its Potchefstroom Campus within the Faculty of Engineering, School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering. This fixed-term temporary opportunity is aimed at technically skilled candidates with qualifications and practical experience in mechanical engineering, fitting and turning, machining, welding and boilermaking.

The successful candidate will provide technical support to laboratory and departmental activities, including the repair, maintenance, design and manufacturing of research equipment. The role will also involve supporting teaching and learning, assisting research projects and supervising junior workshop staff.

Candidates with the required technical qualifications and at least three years of relevant experience are encouraged to consider this opportunity.

NWU Senior Technician Vacancy Details

• Employer: North-West University (NWU)
• Position: Senior Technician
• Listing Reference: nwu_004765
• Position Number: TBF0376
• Faculty: Engineering
• School: Chemical and Minerals Engineering
• Location: Potchefstroom, North-West Province
• Contract Type: Fixed-Term Temporary Appointment
• Peromnes Grade: P10
• Closing Date: 21 October 2026
• Planned Start Date: As soon as possible

The annual total remuneration package will depend on the level of appointment and will be determined in accordance with NWU policy guidelines.

Important: This is a re-advertisement. Candidates who applied previously do not need to submit another application because the university already has their applications.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following educational and practical experience requirements.

1. National Diploma or equivalent qualification

Candidates must have a National Diploma in any discipline or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 6.

2. N3 in Mechanical Engineering

Applicants must also possess an N3 qualification in Mechanical Engineering.

3. Relevant trade certificate

A suitable trade certificate is required. The advertised acceptable trade certificates are:

• Fitting and Turning
• Turning
• Die-Making

4. Relevant work experience

Candidates must have a minimum of three years of experience as a boilermaker or fitter and turner.

Added advantage: At least one year of supervisory experience will be an advantage.

Applicants should ensure that their qualifications and practical experience are clearly reflected in their applications.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Senior Technician will provide technical services to support laboratory operations, teaching activities, research and commercialisation projects within the School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering.

Teaching and Learning Support

The successful candidate will assist with practical teaching activities, support students and help maintain teaching facilities. Practical competence in fitting and turning, machining, welding and boilermaking will be important.

Experience repairing electronic components and maintaining analytical laboratory equipment will also support the role.

Research and Equipment Maintenance

The position involves supporting research activities within the School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering and the Centre of Excellence for Carbon-based Fuels.

Responsibilities include repairing and maintaining equipment, assisting with technical requirements and supporting research projects through practical engineering skills.

Commercialisation and Technical Projects

The successful candidate will provide technical support for externally funded projects and collaborative research initiatives. This includes applying workshop skills to equipment design, manufacturing, repairs and maintenance.

Supervision of Workshop Staff

The role includes overseeing junior workshop staff, providing on-the-job training, supporting skills development and identifying training needs. The appointed candidate will also help ensure that workshop activities operate efficiently.

Required Technical and Personal Skills

NWU highlights several important competencies for this position.

Technical skills:

• Wiring and soldering
• Machining and fitting
• Boilermaking and welding
• Repair and maintenance of equipment

Behavioural competencies:

• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Good time management
• Safe and neat working practices
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

Candidates should demonstrate practical technical ability and an understanding of safe workshop procedures.

Final Thoughts

The NWU Senior Technician vacancy offers an opportunity for suitably qualified technical professionals to contribute to university teaching, engineering research and workshop operations.

Applicants who meet the qualification, trade certificate and experience requirements should review the official advertisement and submit a complete online application before the deadline.

How to Apply