ROLE DESCRIPTION
STREAM E (ASO1–ASO2, OPS1–OPS2, TGO0-TGO1)
ROLE TITLE:
CLASSIFICATION:
ROLE NUMBER:
Research Assistant, Mineralogy
OPS2
AR0969
REPORTS TO: One of the following according to the sections involved: Head of Earth Sciences and/or
Collection Manager Mineralogy
AGENCY: Department of the Premier and Cabinet
DIVISION: South Australian Museum
BUSINESS UNIT: Science, Mineralogy
ROLES REPORTING TO THIS ROLE:
ROLE PURPOSE:
The research assistant, mineralogy, is accountable for the collection, preparation and chemical and structural analysis of items in the South Australian Museum’s Mineralogy collections and associated with the section’s experimental research programs
KEY OUTCOMES OF ROLE:
1.
Assisting with the day-to-day chemical and structural analysis of specimens associated with the research programs in Mineralogy.
2.
Working with the Curatorial/Research collective and with other Collection Management staff to achieve the proper care and storage of items in the Mineralogy Collections.
3.
Providing analytical assistance in other collection areas when required.
4.
Assisting with the storage of collections in a manner that promotes their long- term well-being.
5.
Assisting with the storage of specimens and data from specimen analyses in a manner that promotes their long- term wellbeing.
6.
Ensuring specimens in the Mineralogy Collections are documented as far as practicable through maintaining and refining both paper based and digital systems.
7.
Assisting with research programs related to the research and collection programs in Mineralogy.
8.
Assisting with the promotion and interpretation of Mineralogical Research to all stakeholders, including conducting occasional tours of collection areas, coordinating collections access, contributing to exhibitions development and participating in professional organisations and activities.
9.
Assisting with collections augmentation through field work, sometimes in remote areas, and collection exchanges/acquisitions.
KEY RELATIONSHIPS / INTERACTIONS:
 Reports to the Head of Earth Sciences
 Principal Research Scientist Mineralogy
 Other staff within Mineralogy
 Collections/Research collective
SPECIAL CONDITIONS:
 Occasional intra-state travel may be necessary. Out of hours work may also be required. A current driver’s licence is required.
 The Agency is a smoke free workplace.

KEY SELECTION CRITERIA:
 Experience with various forms of instrumental chemical analysis: electron microprobe, analytical
Scanning Electron Microscopy, Infrared and UV/visible spectroscopy
 Some experience with computer databases and digital imaging.
 Some experience in dealing with work and public contacts courteously and effectively including sound verbal and written communication skills.
 Some knowledge of museum collection management practices is essential and some experience in collecting, preparing and identifying specimens is desirable.
 Some knowledge of computer databases, image scanning and the World Wide Web.
 Some knowledge of Mineralogical classification systems.
 Some knowledge of mineral chemistry and structure.
 Some knowledge of geology/crystallography .
DPC VALUES:
DPC’s Values support the achievement of our objectives and build a high performing workplace. We will:
 Put our customers and citizens at the centre of our decision making (Service)
 Encourage and support innovation (Innovation)
 Respect and value our people and ensure their safety and wellbeing (Respect)
 Take pride in our organisation, our work and ourselves (Professionalism)
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsible for:
 Keeping accurate and complete records of business activities in accordance with the State
Records Act 1997.
 Maintaining a commitment to the Public Sector Act 2009, Ethical Conduct and the legislative requirements of the Public Sector Act 2009 and Work Health and Safety Act 2012.
 Supporting and advocating Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and diversity in the workplace in accordance with EEO legislation. In particular, maintaining a commitment to promote an inclusive workplace in support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other under represented groups.
CORE COMPETENCIES & ASSOCIATED BEHAVIOURS EXPECTED AT THIS CLASSIFICATION:
Understands the Big Picture
Recognises how they contribute to the big picture
Understands and supports business objectives
Adapts to a changing environment
Demonstrates an awareness and solves everyday problems that may impact on own designated work tasks
Is aware of both internal and external factors and influences that may affect own work outcomes
Achieves Results
Makes effective use of own capabilities
Monitors and evaluates available information correctly to deliver the best results
Understands how work practices are governed by Public Sector legislation, regulations and policies
Is responsive and completes tasks within set timelines
Contributes own expertise to achieve outcomes for the business unit
Embraces Business Excellence
Displays a ‘can do’ attitude and is open to change
Understands and analyses what information is important and how it should be used.
Is responsive to learning opportunities and works towards agreed performance standards. Takes positive action following constructive feedback
Committed to delivery of strong customer service by understanding needs
Provides support to effective financial monitoring, and adheres to procurement and contract procedures
Develops Positive Working Relationships
Listens to and considers different ideas and discusses issues with consideration and care.
Acts sensitively and constructively in conflict situations to prevent escalating the problem.
Shares information and contributes to team discussions
Builds and sustains positive relationships with team members, stakeholders and clients
Communicates messages clearly and concisely
Understands the Need for Professionalism
Adopts behaviour consistent with the principles, values and ethics of the organisation
Provides accurate advice and acknowledges mistakes and learns from them
Works as directed to achieve objectives in difficult circumstances remaining positive and responding in a calm manner
Seeks feedback from others. Is aware of how behaviour impacts on others. Seeks self development opportunities
Understands, values and responds to diversity and treats people with respect and courtesy
Maintains safe work practices and wellbeing of self and others