Micropropagation Lead Technician

Fall Creek is creating a world with better blueberries through its friendly, collaborative team spread across the globe. To help us accomplish this, we are seeking a qualified Micropropagation Lead Technician. This position will be located in Paarl, South Africa.
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This position requires an understanding of in vitro micropropagation of in vitro plant material, Transfer room lab processes and production data. The Team Leader will be responsible for micropropagation, moving and shipping plant material. Primary duties include recording of plant production, plant quality, plant performance and technician performance data. While being capable to balance multiple tasks. This position will also assist with training new employees. They are responsible for micropropagation, moving and shipping of plant material. The Team Leader is responsible for seeing that the Lab Technicians are performing their work in a safe and efficient manner. This role requires high attention to detail, organization, ability to multitask, and to have clear communication with end-users, team members and service providers
**ORGANIZATIONAL FIT**:
This position reports to the TC lab Supervisor / Lab Manager and works closely with other lab employees.
**JOB SETTING**:
Laboratory setting
**PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS**:
Must be able to work with chemical products.
Position will perform repetitive work often requiring fine motor skills.
Must be able to lift 30 pounds(app. 15kg).
Must be able to climb up a step-ladder to put away plants.
Comfortable operating around heat-generating equipment
Ability to work under aseptic conditions.
Ability to work in a high-volume environment.
**ESSENTIAL DUTIES**: (Other duties may be assigned)
Organize, schedule and coordinate plant micropropagation schedule.
Assisting in training of micropropagation team members in proper use of equipment and micropropagation protocols, ensuring plants produced meets specifications with mínimal contamination levels.
Oversee day-to-day activities of micropropagation team members and ensure stock is managed effectively.
Manage inventory, maintain, processes, track, and assist in ordering laboratory supplies (chemicals, consumables, glassware, etc) for the department.
Perform laboratory procedures following established protocols with a focus on quality data collection and documentation results.
Record accurate quality control information in equipment/plant logs.
Strive to ensure Plant Production is kept within budget.
Ensure all transfer and culture areas are organized and clean, including storage rooms.
Routine maintenance and QC procedures of general lab operational micropropagation equipment including autoclaves, glass bead sterilisers, laminar flow hoods and others. This may involve coordination with service providers and media preparation colleagues.
Assist in the development and implementation of QC protocols to ensure all plants are produced and grown in optimal conditions and according to expectations and standards.
Conduct QC procedures and maintain respective records up to date.
Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data in digital files or database. Use Excel to record and organize data.
Maintain the safety of the lab according to established safety procedures and standards.
Keep the TC Supervisor / Manager apprised of relevant issues and problems that may arise in a timely manner.
Assure the highest level of confidentiality on sensitive matters concerning Fall Creek Farm & Nursery.
Help maintain a culture of respect at Fall Creek Farm & Nursery (FCFN).
Other duties as assigned.
**REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND TRAINING**:
Typically requires degree, advanced training or courses in plant pathology, chemistry and/or biological sciences, or 2+ years of related working experience.
Must be able to read, communicate and follow detailed instructions, directions, recipes and protocols in English and Afrikaans.
Requires a high attention to detail and the ability to recognize and observe small deviations.
Requires the ability to be highly organized in handling materials, equipment and supplies.
Ability to collaborate with other team members, develop strong relationships, and maintain a positive attitude.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work in a clean environment with limited access to the outdoors.
Regular and reliable attendance at the primary place of business.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the position.
Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work well with people from different ethnic backgrounds and with varying English language skills.
Must demonstrate professional and ethical business practices, adherence to company values, and a commitment to personal and professional development.
Must be self motivated and prepared to keep self and others busy.
**DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS**:
Experience working in a laboratory setting.
Knowledge of laboratory terminology and equipment.
Detail oriented and patient.
Ability to work