Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) invites interested and suitably qualified candidates to apply for Part-time Student Laboratory Assistant (X3) positions within the Technology Station in Chemicals (TSC), Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus. This six-month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity is designed for third-year Analytical Chemistry students who require experiential learning to complete their qualification. The programme provides structured workplace training, allowing students to gain valuable practical experience in laboratory operations, chemical testing, research support, and sample preparation.
This opportunity offers an excellent platform for students to strengthen their technical knowledge while developing essential workplace skills in a professional laboratory environment. Successful candidates will work alongside experienced laboratory personnel, contribute to research and SMME support projects, and gain recognized occupational experience that can enhance future career prospects in the chemical, manufacturing, environmental, pharmaceutical, mining, and research sectors.
- Position: Part-time Student Laboratory Assistants (X3)
- Location: Ga-Rankuwa Campus, Gauteng, South Africa
- Department: Technology Station in Chemicals (TSC)
- Faculty: Engineering and the Built Environment
- Reference Number: 26/066
- Job Type: Part-Time Student Opportunity
- Contract Duration: 6 Months
- Closing Date: 30 July 2026
About the Opportunity
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is inviting applications for three (3) Part-time Student Laboratory Assistant positions within the Technology Station in Chemicals (TSC) at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus. This opportunity is specifically designed for Analytical Chemistry students who require Work Integrated Learning (WIL) or Experiential Learning as part of their academic programme.
The programme combines structured workplace learning with practical laboratory experience, allowing students to strengthen technical skills while working alongside experienced professionals in a real laboratory environment. Successful candidates will participate in research activities, chemical testing, sample preparation, and projects that support small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
This position provides valuable industry exposure that can strengthen a graduate’s professional profile and improve employability after completing academic studies.
Position Summary
The Part-time Student Laboratory Assistant role offers practical experience in laboratory operations and chemical analysis. Candidates will gain hands-on exposure to laboratory procedures while supporting research projects and testing activities within the Technology Station in Chemicals.
The position is ideal for students who have completed the academic component of their qualification and only require experiential learning to graduate.
Key Responsibilities
Successful applicants will assist with various laboratory functions, including:
- Assisting with laboratory testing and chemical analysis.
- Preparing laboratory samples for testing and evaluation.
- Supporting research and development activities.
- Assisting with projects involving SMMEs.
- Recording laboratory observations and test results.
- Maintaining laboratory cleanliness and organization.
- Following laboratory safety procedures and quality standards.
- Handling laboratory equipment according to established procedures.
- Supporting supervisors with daily laboratory operations.
- Participating in workplace learning activities throughout the contract period.
Benefits of the Programme
This six-month workplace learning programme offers several advantages for students preparing to enter the scientific workforce.
Participants will receive practical laboratory experience in a professional environment while working with qualified laboratory personnel. Exposure to chemical testing and analytical procedures allows students to apply theoretical knowledge gained during academic studies.
The programme also focuses on developing workplace readiness skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professional conduct. These competencies are highly valued across laboratory, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, food processing, environmental testing, mining, and chemical industries.
Another important benefit is the opportunity to gain recognized occupational experience, which may strengthen future employment applications after graduation.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following academic requirements:
- Grade 12 (Matric) certificate.
- Currently studying Analytical Chemistry.
- Third-year student requiring Experiential Learning (Work Integrated Learning) only to complete the qualification.
Only candidates who meet the academic requirements should submit applications.
Personal Attributes
Suitable candidates should demonstrate the following qualities:
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a laboratory environment.
- Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Good organizational skills.
- Professional attitude toward laboratory work.
- Commitment to following health and safety procedures.
- Reliability and punctuality.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately.
Skills That May Be Developed
During the placement, participants may gain experience in areas such as:
- Analytical laboratory procedures.
- Chemical sample preparation.
- Laboratory documentation.
- Data recording and reporting.
- Laboratory quality practices.
- Occupational health and safety awareness.
- Team collaboration.
- Research support activities.
- Professional communication.
- Time management within a laboratory setting.
These practical skills can contribute to career development in scientific and technical fields after graduation.
Ideal Candidate Profile
This opportunity is intended for motivated students who are eager to transition from classroom learning into practical laboratory work. Candidates should demonstrate an interest in analytical chemistry and possess a willingness to develop professionally through supervised workplace experience.
Individuals who enjoy scientific investigations, laboratory testing, and research support activities may find this programme particularly beneficial.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should submit the following documents:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copy of South African Identity Document.
- Certified copy of Matric Certificate.
- Academic Record.
- Fully completed standardized TUT employment application form.
Failure to submit all required documentation may result in disqualification from the recruitment process.
Selection Process
Applications will be evaluated according to the advertised requirements. Candidates who meet the minimum criteria may be shortlisted for further assessment.
The selection process may include psychometric assessments and other selection instruments where applicable. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the recruitment process.
If no communication is received within one month after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful.
Tshwane University of Technology reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Workplace Learning Experience
The Technology Station in Chemicals provides an environment where students can bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry application. Daily activities expose participants to laboratory operations that support research, testing, product development, and technical services.
Working alongside experienced laboratory professionals enables students to observe industry best practices while developing confidence in handling laboratory procedures and equipment. Exposure to workplace standards also helps students understand professional expectations within scientific environments.
Experience gained through structured workplace learning can improve career readiness and prepare graduates for opportunities within both the public and private sectors.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Experience obtained through this programme may support future career opportunities in areas including:
- Chemical laboratories.
- Environmental testing laboratories.
- Pharmaceutical companies.
- Food and beverage laboratories.
- Water quality testing facilities.
- Mining laboratories.
- Petrochemical companies.
- Manufacturing quality control laboratories.
- Research institutions.
- Government scientific laboratories.
Graduates may also pursue further academic studies or specialized laboratory certifications depending on career goals.
Employment Equity
Applications from women and persons with disabilities are encouraged in support of employment equity objectives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit all required application documents before the closing date.
Email Applications To: [email protected]
Telephone: (012) 382 0789 / 0503 / 0844
Important Notes
Applicants must ensure that all supporting documents are certified and submitted together with the completed application form. Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date may not be considered.
Candidates should carefully verify that all information provided is accurate and complete before submission. Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee shortlisting or appointment.
