Trainee Laboratory Assistant

About the position

We are an innovative biotechnology company focused on microbial and agricultural research and development. We are offering a practical, hands-on opportunity for trainees looking to gain valuable laboratory experience in a real-world setting.

This opportunity is open to:

• Students completing work-integrated learning (WIL) as part of their National Diploma or BTech (e.g., in Biotechnology or Food Technology)
• Graduates from TVET Colleges or Universities of Technologies (UoTs) who require workplace learning to complete their qualification or seek post-qualification experience, and
• Early-career individuals with a strong interest in laboratory work, regardless of formal WIL requirements.

As a Trainee Laboratory Assistant, you will be involved in insect rearing, basic microbiology, and day-to-day lab operations. This 12-month full-time role is designed to support both academic learning and professional development in a structured laboratory environment.

Outstanding performance during this placement may lead to consideration for future employment opportunities within the company.

Key responsibilities

• Rear and maintain laboratory insects used in experimental work
• Prepare insect diets and maintain rearing environments
• Conduct basic microbiological work, including media preparation and handling of microbial cultures
• Perform cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Assist with routine laboratory tasks, stock monitoring, and hygiene upkeep
• Accurately maintain laboratory logs and records
• Adhere to protocols for contamination prevention and aseptic working

Ideal candidates will have:

• A strong understanding of aseptic techniques and contamination control
• Careful, methodical work habits and attention to detail
• Willingness to work with insects in a lab environment
• A diligent, reliable, and eager-to-learn mindset
• Ability to follow instructions precisely and work independently
• Willingness to perform repetitive or routine tasks as part of structured SOPs
• A collaborative and professional attitude

Minimum requirements

• Completed or in-progress National Diploma, BTech, or BSc in Biotechnology, Food Technology, Microbiology, or a related field, OR
• Enrolled in a WIL/in-service training program through a TVET or UoT, OR
• Demonstrated experience working in laboratory environments, even outside formal study

Desirable

• Experience through academic labs, vacation work, or volunteer roles
• Familiarity with safe lab practices and good documentation standards

What we offer

• A structured and supervised 12-month training experience
• Practical exposure to microbial and insect-rearing processes in a real biotech lab
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Letter of completion and performance evaluation (for WIL or institutional requirements)
• Potential pathway to employment, based on performance and operational needs
• Remuneration: R4,000 to R5,000 per month (stipend during training contract)

How to applySubmit the following documents:

• Your CV and a short cover letter explaining your interest in the position and when you are able to start if offered the position
• If you are applying as part of a TVET or UoT WIL program, a letter from your TVET or UoT stating that you need to complete WIL
• Certified copies of your results
• Certified copy of your ID

If you have not received a response within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. Shortlisted candidates must be available for interviews on dates and times scheduled by AgriViro.

Job Types: Full-time, ContractContract length: 12 months

Pay: R4 000,00 - R5 000,00 per month

Application Question(s):

• When are you able to start if offered the position?

Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/05/02

Information :

• Company : AgriViro (Pty) Ltd
• Position : Trainee Laboratory Assistant
• Location : Modderfontein, Gauteng
• Country : ZA