Juane Leukes

Experience

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  South African Astronomical Observatory

  Jul 2013 - Jun 2014

  Design ElementsCAD/CAMMaintenanceQuality ControlManufacturingCNCProblem SolvingReport WritingResearch

  • Student Technician

    Jul 2013 - Jun 2014

  • Engineering Technician

    Jul 2013 - Jun 2014
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  Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation

  Jul 2016 - Feb 2017

  Technical Assistant
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  University of Cape Town

  Mar 2017 - Sept 2020

  Technical Officer
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  Desmond Tutu Health Foundation

  Oct 2020 - Dec 2023

  Dedicated Apparatus Assembly and Maintenance professional with expertise in providing specialized technical services to support research activities. Proven ability to independently contribute to research teams, ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of equipment through meticulous maintenance, monitoring, and component design.Key Competencies:Maintenance and Monitoring: - Equipment maintenance and repair - Cost-benefit analysis for repairs or replacements - Design of equipment/apparatus - Independent performance within research teamsComponent Design and Manufacture: - Concept development, CAD modeling, and prototype testing - Comprehensive understanding of research requirements - Optimization of design limits for ease of manufactureHealth and Safety Monitoring: - Regular checks and hazard identification - SOP development and implementation - Creation of a safe working environment for all staffApparatus/Component Inventory Control and Management: - Identification and sourcing of raw materials - Inventory maintenance and quality checks - Assistance in developing sampling systemsMachine Operation and Experimental Sampling: - Development and implementation of experiments and protocols - Routine sampling and experiment coordination - Troubleshooting and maintenance of sampling devices - Specimen delivery for analysisAchievements:- Reduction of equipment downtime and large-scale repairs- Customization of products based on research requirements- Implementation of standard operating procedures for health and safety- Improved accuracy of inventory orders, saving time and money- Increased efficiency and productivity in machine operation and experimental sampling. Show less

  • Senior Technical Officer

    Jul 2021 - Dec 2023

  • Technical Officer

    Oct 2020 - Jun 2021
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  University of Cape Town

  Jan 2024 - now

  Chief Technical Officer

  Innovatively overseeing diverse responsibilities:- Efficiently managing a 5-vehicle pool, ensuring seamless bookings, fueling, and maintenance for teaching and research field trips.- Spearheading maintenance and mechanical repairs of analytical instruments, optimizing laboratory efficiency, and minimizing downtime.- Leading the design, construction, and development of specialized teaching and research equipment, ensuring cost-effective fabrication.- Collaboratively liaising with UCT maintenance for the Geological Sciences building, overseeing repairs, renovations, and service calls.- Maintaining the Laingsburg field station, ensuring functionality for annual field trips.- Serving as the Fire and Safety Officer, monitoring compliance and ensuring safe operations within the Geological Sciences building. Show less