Shift Chemist

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Shift Chemist will be responsible for all analysis of samples in the most accurate and productive way and timely as per relevant Test Method Instruction, assist the HOD in ensuring compliance with the SGS Laboratory Quality Manual as well as Health and Safety procedures.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical

• Analyzing of all analytical samples for specific analysis using the correct procedures and / or methods.
• Technical accuracy of results is monitored and remedial action is taken when necessary and data is recorded (Evaluation of analytical results)
• Update internal findings, improvement request and keep minutes of internal meetings
• Reports are generated detailing analytical results, and can include opinions and interpretations
• Verifying of instruments.
• Assist with the maintenance of instruments and apparatus.
• Must have workable knowledge to calibrate and perform minor maintenance of laboratory and preparation equipment.
• Early identification of biases and QC issues and immediate communication of these to the Section Manager
• Diagnose all suspect results and assist in rectifying the problem whether it is equipment or analytical.

Administration

• Calculate test results as per standard format and / or procedures.
• Report results within the time frame specified.
• Report any apparatus or equipment which, to your knowledge, is not functioning correctly to the Section Manager.
• Calculate all test results in a standard format as per relevant Test Method Instruction for each workstation.
• Transfer data from the instrument to LIMS
• All analytical data and calculations shall be made traceable and stored in the relevant files for that purpose or LIMS.
• Recording and filing of all equipment records for Quality purposes.
• Sample disposal
•  Verify test results against control samples and charts.
• Re-analyze analysis samples when control results are not within the control charts limits.

General

• Assist with changing of gas cylinders.
• Overseeing the cleaning of the laboratory and immediate working area.
• Ensure that quality procedures are complied with.
• Ensure compliance with the Laboratory Health and Safety Act.
• Perform duties on all relevant workstations as required by the shift workload.
• Must be willing to work shifts
• Must be willing to work overtime whenever necessary.
• Assist on any lower or above level when necessary
• Supervisor skills and computer literacy would be advantages.
• Assist with the training of new staff / operators on new methods and / or procedures.
• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager

Supervising

• Supervisor skills and computer literacy would be advantages.
• Assist with the training on new methods and /or procedures.
• Control the time keeping on the shift.
• Plan leave in such a way that overtime is kept to a minimum.
• Check on daily staff attendance and address any problem timelessly and Pro-actively.
• Ensure that there are sufficient Staff members on shift.
• Shift take over will only take place in the Laboratory building.

Production

• Plan leave in such a way that overtime is kept to a minimum.
• Check on daily staff attendance and address any problem timelessly and Pro-actively
• Ensure that there are sufficient Staff members on shift.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Report any faulty and/or nonfunctioning apparatus or equipment to the Team Leader/Supervisor.
• Observe, log and report any anomalies and or deviations from process/protocols/procedures/work instructions, during analysis activities, to the Team Leader/Supervisor.
• Ensure that proper procedures are followed quality results are reported.
• Assist with training of new employees where required.
• High level Knowledge of AAS and LECO operation, maintenance and trouble shooting.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS – HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTS

• Shall adhere to all Health, Safety and Environmental requirements of the SGS OI Management System, country legislation, Rules for Life, local legal requirements and laws.
• Shall comply and conform to the QHSE, Global and country policies of SGS.
• Participate and form part of Operational Integrity projects and campaigns.
• Shall report Health, Safety and Environmental hazards, incidents/accidents and near misses to the Supervisor/SHE Representative/Location Manager/OI Site Coordinator.
• Apply Check status process and use the Stop Work Authority whenever the control of risks is not clearly established and understood.
• Observe and report any faulty/nonfunctioning apparatus or equipment and or deviations from process/protocols/procedures/work instructions, to the Supervisor/Location Manager.
• Assist in investigations.
• Ensure that all proper procedures/Working instructions, etc. are followed.
• Assist with training of employee/s where required.

Education

• Minimum BSc or N Diploma in Analytical Chemistry

Experience

• On the job training will be provided as well as formal training
• At least two years laboratory experience with a Diploma or 5 years laboratory experience, preferably in a testing laboratory environment
• Computer Literate in LIMS, Word, and Excel
• High level Knowledge of AAS and LECO operation, maintenance and trouble shooting.

Competencies

• Must have full understanding of the LIMS system
• Competent technical knowledge of multiple analytical processes
• Able to work with technical and management staff
• Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Management System
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Is innovative with a systematic approach for problem solving
• Consult immediately with Manager with respect to client complaints and anomalous results and other technical non-conformances
• Works well under pressure
• Able to coordinate and motivate a team towards a common goal
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Administration of all Laboratory documentation, especially HSEQ program