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The Technical Assistant provides practical, hands-on support for potting shed and glasshouse operations within the Biological Services team. The role undertakes a range of routine technical and operational tasks in accordance with established procedures and under close guidance. The position supports research activities by preparing materials, transporting supplies, maintaining work areas, and assisting with basic glasshouse and grounds activities.
Job Responsibility:
Prepare soil mixes, growth media, pots, and related materials for use in glasshouse and research activities in accordance with instructions and established procedures
Assist with routine maintenance and cleaning of the potting shed, glasshouses, and surrounding work areas to maintain a safe and orderly environment
Undertake basic pest control activities under guidance, including identifying common glasshouse pests and applying approved treatments
Transport soil, pots, plants, and equipment to designated locations within laboratories and glasshouses
Operate light agricultural equipment and tools (such as trolleys, tractors, or ATVs) where trained and authorised
Monitor supplies and consumables, replenish stock as required, and report shortages or issues to supervising staff
Follow health, safety, and environmental requirements, including correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe manual handling practices
Communicate courteously and effectively with team members, keeping relevant staff informed of task progress or issues
Work collaboratively with technical and research staff to support daily operational requirements
Perform other routine duties consistent with the level of the position as directed
Requirements:
Demonstrated experience in practical, hands-on work such as horticulture, grounds, glasshouse, facilities, laboratory support, or similar operational environments, or the ability to quickly learn these tasks
Ability to work effectively as part of a small team and to complete routine tasks independently when required, in accordance with established procedures and safety requirements
Ability to communicate clearly, politely, and respectfully with colleagues and researchers, including responding to requests and emails and participating in day-to-day work discussions
Awareness of workplace health, safety, and environmental requirements, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), manual handling practices, and chemical safety, and a demonstrated willingness to follow established procedures
Basic computer skills sufficient to read and respond to emails and to enter routine information into spreadsheets (e.g. basic data entry in Microsoft Excel)
Ability to undertake the manual tasks inherent to the role, including handling soil, pots, and equipment, working on feet for extended periods, and performing duties indoors and outdoors, with or without reasonable adjustments
A current Australian C class driver licence, as the role involves driving vehicles on site, including areas designated as public road
Willingness to undertake and maintain required training and authorisations relevant to the role, including ChemAlert accreditation for pest control activities
Nice to have:
A qualification in the horticulture, agriculture or a related field experience
Experience working in a glasshouse, horticultural, agricultural, or research support environment
Experience handling soil, plants, or assisting with basic pest control activities under instruction
What we offer:
15.4% superannuation
CSIRO offers a range of leave entitlements, benefits and career development opportunities