Senior Microbiologist

**Roles and Responsibilities**

**Analytical Testing**:

- To effectively manage assigned tests and maintain turnaround time by interrogating the test Work In Progress.
- Cross training on other chemistry techniques.
- Provide backup support in the chemistry laboratory when required.

**Method Development and Validation**:

- Develop, optimise, and validate analytical methods in compliance with SANAS standards.
- Review and update existing procedures to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

**Quality Control and Assurance**:

- Ensure all laboratory activities comply with SANAS accreditation requirements and environmental regulations.
- Conduct internal audits, implement corrective actions, and participate in external audits to maintain accreditation.
- Monitor and maintain records of quality control data.
- To achieve and maintain ISO 17025 Technical Signatory status in your functional area.
- Register with SACNASP
- Data Analysis and Reporting:

- Analyse and interpret test results.
- Approve/ reject results as appropriate on LIMS, including subcontracted results.
- Effectively communicate findings to technical supervisor or Client Liaison when required.
- Assist with the investigation of customer complaints and grumbles as directed by the Client Liaison.

**Team Leadership and Training**:

- Provide guidance and mentorship to technical staff in both KZN and PTA laboratories.
- Oversee the work of laboratory technicians and analysts, ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures.
- Assist technicians with root cause and corrective action process.
- Equipment and Inventory Management:

- Oversee and manage Laboratory stock control, and generate relevant purchase order requisitions, including approval of supplier invoices.
- Support the troubleshooting of all methods, instrumentation, and non-routine matrices.
- Improve technical efficiencies with methods, planning execution of the work in progress requirements.

**Regulatory compliance**:

- Ensuring Health & Safety Requirements i.e use of PPE are adhered to by laboratory staff and carry out required duties as a H&S representative.

**Requirements**:

- Minimum qualification: BSc/ BTech in Microbiology related field.
- 5 years laboratory experience.
- Competence in Microbiology testing and techniques.
- Computer skills, (MS-Office including Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint, LIMS).
- Broad understanding of Customer requests, technical requirements, and product offerings.

**Job Type**: Permanent

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (required)

**Education**:

- Bachelors (preferred)

**Experience**:

- Laboratory: 5 years (preferred)