Laboratory Analyst-047-009

The Laboratory Analyst will be responsible for the following:

1. Coordinating the activities of the laboratory technicians and interns and optimizing the use of the equipment in the preparative section of the laboratory.
3. Ensure service delivery to the customers- reporting of results within the documented turnaround time.
4. Method validation-addition of new matrices and/or pesticide actives.
5. Self-management.
6. Minimize financial risks.
7. Implementation of QMS (ISO17025).
8. Communication and reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
9. Self-management.
10. Minimise financial risk.
11. Management of critical consumables.

Qualification Required

Minimum qualification of a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or related field.

Experience Required

- At least 3 years of relevant experience working in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
- Implementation of accredited methods, increasing the scope of accreditation and a particular understanding of the technical processes of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS analysis of pesticide residues.
- Interpretation and evaluation of test results.
- Trouble shooting of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS.
- Method validation and creation of validation reports according to EURACHEM regulations.
- Analysis of pesticide residues using the QuEChERS extraction technique.

Key Responsibilities

- Co-ordinates the use of analytical equipment to ensure maximum throughput in the laboratory.
- Maximise analytical volumes per day.
- Performs internal verification of equipment (balances, volumetric flasks, pipettes)
- Ensures that the accommodation and environmental conditions of the laboratory are controlled and recorded accordingly.
- Checking quality and suitability of chemicals.
- Sample registration on LIMS
- Preparation of reference standards.
- Preparation of daily solvents and standards.
- Participation in proficiency testing schemes.
- Routine preventative maintenance of the GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS instruments.
- Checking and authorising certificates of analysis for pesticide results as a SANAS approved technical signatory.
- Troubleshooting-instruments/QC samples/test results/equipment.
- Attend and participate in laboratory meetings.
- Assist with the clearance of non-conformances – root cause analysis.
- Effective communication and reporting that leads to improved internal relationships and decisions.

Knowledge Required

- In depth knowledge of ISO 17025, implementation, and improvements.
- Method validation according to EURACHEM regulations.
- Sound knowledge of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS instrumentation and method validation.
- Pesticide residue analysis using the QuEChERS extraction technique.

Skills Required

- Well-developed interpersonal skills.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Sound technical record keeping techniques.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Propensity to pay attention to detail.
- Computer literate- MS Outlook, Word & Excel.