North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit | Chief Laboratory Technician P0003162

Position Summary Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
Introduction NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS) FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES RESEARCH ENTITY: HYPERTENSION IN AFRICA RESEARCH TEAM POSITION NUMBER: P0003162 VACANCY: CHIEF LABORATORY TECHNICIAN PEROMNES: P9 EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PERMANENT APPOINTMENT
Job Description PURPOSE OF THE POSITION The Chief Laboratory Technician is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality across all laboratory procedures, protocols, and outputs. This includes the development and implementation of comprehensive quality control measures, adherence to regulatory compliance where applicable, and the establishment or maintenance of accreditation standards. The role is central to maintaining the integrity and reliability of the laboratory's work, ensuring that all outputs meet the stringent requirements necessary for high-impact research. By leading quality improvement initiatives, the Chief Laboratory Technician will uphold and enhance the laboratory's standards, contributing to its reputation for excellence and its ability to support groundbreaking research projects effectively.
Key Responsibilities Quality Management: Lead the development, strategic alignment and implementation of comprehensive quality management systems across all laboratory functions.Establish and manage laboratory processes aligned with accreditation standards (e.g. ISO standards), setting benchmarks for excellence and ensuring sustained compliance.Develop, implement, review and update quality assurance processes, including standard operating procedures and related documents, to maintain and elevate high standards.Verify research results and data capturing processes, ensuring data integrity that aligns with approved standard operating procedures.Analyse quality control data, generate detailed reports, and identify trends and areas for improvement to drive continuous quality enhancement.Define and implement laboratory-wide performance metrics, establishing measurable targets for quality and operational efficiency.Conduct internal audits and quality checks to ensure compliance with established standards, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.Maintain comprehensive and accurate records for compliance, accreditation, and operational transparency.Laboratory Management Provide strategic oversight and guidance to ensure seamless operational and technical execution in the laboratory, supporting autonomy for all laboratory staff, while maintaining alignment with laboratory standards and objectives.Strategically plan and manage laboratory resources, including forecasting future stock and equipment needs, securing quotations, placing orders, and aligning procurement with laboratory growth and research priorities.Oversee the development and implementation of laboratory infrastructure upgrades, identifying gaps, proposing solutions, and managing installation and integration processes to enhance operational capacity.Ensure that all laboratory logbooks are regularly updated, maintaining accurate records that align with quality and compliance standards.Oversee and execute routine maintenance and servicing of laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.Collaborate with all laboratory staff and provide guidance regarding laboratory scheduling and resource allocation, ensuring the prioritization of high-impact research projects, the efficient use of resources, and the timely utilization of funding within designated time frames.Build and maintain strong relationships with application specialists and representatives to maximise technical support and drive innovation in laboratory practices.Training And Development Provide focused training and supervision to postgraduate students, staff members and interns in fundamental aspects of sample handling, preparation, and storage.Train and guide postgraduate students and interns in conducting basic laboratory analyses, ensuring adherence to standard protocols.Support the development of practical skills aligned with quality control procedures and regulatory requirements, fostering a foundational understanding of laboratory operations.Coordinate and deliver OHS training for laboratory staff, interns, and students, emphasizing safe practices, emergency response procedures, and awareness of safety protocols.Explore and recommend opportunities for external training collaborations to enhance the lab's capabilities and align practices with industry standards.Continuously evaluate training needs within the lab and adjust programs to address core challenges and ensure consistent alignment with research goals.Occupational Health And Safety And Risk Management Develop, implement, and enforce comprehensive occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines to ensure a safe working environment that complies with relevant regulations and standards.Establish and oversee robust protocols for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, including medical and chemical waste, to minimize risks and environmental impact.Conduct regular risk assessments and audits of laboratory facilities, identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions to address deficiencies.Ensure the availability and proper functioning of safety equipment, such as eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, and personal protective equipment (PPE), and manage their regular maintenance and inspection.Coordinate with the designated department to ensure effective emergency preparedness initiatives, including the implementation of evacuation plans, spill response protocols, and first-aid readiness, to safeguard personnel and uphold research integrity.Monitor and document OHS compliance through meticulous record-keeping, reporting incidents, and tracking corrective actions to ensure continuous improvement in safety standards.Promote a culture of safety and risk awareness, encouraging proactive identification and reporting of potential risks to foster accountability and shared responsibility within the laboratory team.Ad Hoc Duties Provide support to laboratory staff in managing increased workloads, including the analysis of samples for various research projects as needed.Assist with special research projects assigned by the Research Director.Perform other duties as required to ensure the smooth operation of the laboratory during periods of high demand.Minimum Requirements An honour's degree in Biochemistry (NQF level 8).A Master of Science degree in Biochemistry (NQF level 9).Registration with the HPCSA as a Medical Biological Scientist.A minimum of three (3) years' laboratory experience in pathology, haematology and immunology.A minimum of three (3) years' experience in ISO 17025.A minimum of three (3) years' experience in laboratory auditing.Functional/Technical Competencies In-depth knowledge of ISO17025 standards, GLP, GCP and GCLP and quality control processes, including developing and implementing quality assurance systems, conducting audits, and ensuring data integrity and compliance.Expertise in overseeing daily lab functions, including resource management, equipment maintenance, supporting research projects, and extensive laboratory experience in chemical pathology, haematology, and immunology to ensure smooth and efficient lab operations.Strong understanding of safety regulations, risk assessments, and emergency protocols, ensuring a safe working environment and minimizing risks related to hazardous materials.Ability to design and deliver effective training programs for staff and students, fostering skill development in lab techniques, safety practices, and adherence to regulatory standards.Behavioural Competencies Leadership: Ability to guide, motivate, and support laboratory staff, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and standards.Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify issues, develop solutions, and implement corrective actions, particularly in laboratory processes and equipment maintenance.Attention to detail: A meticulous approach to work, ensuring accuracy in data analysis, maintaining compliance with protocols, and adhering to quality standards in all aspects of laboratory operations.Adaptability and Flexibility: Capability to adjust to changing demands, priorities, and workloads, particularly during high-demand periods or when dealing with unexpected challenges in the lab environment.REMUNERATION The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof. Carina Mels on 018 299 1983
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Ms. Melissa Freeman on 018 299 4811
CLOSING DATE: 17 January 2025
COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: 1 April 2025
Kindly take note: applications may only be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website.
Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the aforementioned Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

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