Chemical Lab Coordinator

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

My client, a large manufacturing concern and part of a listed group and a leader in the manufacturing industry, is seeking a Laboratory Coordinator. The role of a Laboratory Coordinator is to conduct analytical or lab-based tests on a variety of chemicals, materials, or products. The incumbent will typically receive samples and conduct testing for the purposes of quality assurance, safety inspection, regulatory adherence, environmental impact, or sample testing.

Key performance criteria of this position include:

1. To conduct daily process control tests on all critical technical parameters within the plant. These would include but are not limited to incoming raw materials, clay products, glaze products, firing properties, and well as finished product properties
2. Problem-solving and continuous improvement
3. Data capturing and statistical analysis
4. Evaluating factory process controls and improving process stability
5. Training of process controllers
6. Clay body development, analysis, and continuous improvement
7. Failure analysis, and technical investigations and reporting on customer complaints
8. Purchasing and financial controls on all laboratory expenses to ensure a cost-effective testing process
9. Housekeeping and Health and Safety

Desirable skills and attributes of the ideal candidate:

• Be in possession of a BSc Chemical or Metallurgical degree.
• Have experience with ceramics, refractories, or metallurgical processes
• Demonstrate leadership ability by leading from the front
• Skills and experience related to failure analysis and problem-solving
• Have the ability to analyze a situation problem and resolve issues analytically
• Being able to communicate effectively and have good interpersonal skills
• Have a hands-on approach and pride in the work performed
• Attention to detail and perseverance to get the details right
• Total commitment to product quality
• Have the ability to develop and implement systems and procedures to control the process
• A positive attitude, willingness to work long hours, and ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• BSc Chemical or Metallurgical degree - good average on final exams required.
• Excellent matric Math results required.
• At least 3 years of industry-related experience in quality control, research, and development, or working in a chemical environment.
• Good knowledge of both laboratory and manufacturing practices.
• Knowledge in the handling of microbiological analysis and advanced analytical laboratory equipment related to quality control programs, for example, GMP(Good Manufacturing Practices)
• MS Office

Reporting to:

Factory Manager

Key Competencies / Skills:

• Problem-solving abilities,
• Resilience, energetic, and robust
• Initiative / Proactive
• Self-awareness
• Positive attitude
• Willing to work long hours
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
• Ability to work without supervision

HOURS OF WORK:

Monday Friday

Every alternative Saturday