Minimum Requirements

• NQF 7: BSc Degree in Biology / Chemical or Natural Sciences
• NQF 6 in Management
• At least 5 years practical experience working in an SANAS accredited analytical laboratory
• Completed the ISO 17025 Laboratory System course
• Application of audit functions as required by ISO 17025
• Knowledge of the Blue Drop, Green Drop and SANS 241 Water quality requirements in contest of Water Safety Plans and legal requirements
• Hands-on experience with LIMS systems
• Experience in the strategic planning as required for accredited analytical water laboratories to meet customer requirements and company objectives.
• Interpretation of analytical results and its data

Primary Duties

• Managing of sampling and customer services as well as its staff to ensure optimal utilisation of all resources (Finance, equipments, consumables etc.) to meet Laboratory Customer Services client requirements (i.e., water sampling programme).
• Production of field data and its associated quality control measures that comply with the ISO 17025 and the Blue/Green Drop Certification requirements.
• Design and implementation of production workflow structures (including LIMS application), and optimise allocation of resources for routine sampling, method development and special investigations.
• Initiate, plan and priorities scheduled work activities, and maintenance of equipment.
• Supervise all safety and quality (SHEQ) aspects of the laboratory processes and ensure compliance to applicable standards (ISO 17025, ISO 9000, ISO 18001, ISO 14001).
• Budget compilation, appropriate allocation and utilisation within budgetary guidelines.
• Compile reports for use by management in decision making and for external customers.
• Investigate, document all customer request and non-conformances.
• Always provide a transparent environment with a two-way communication that encourages individual / team performance, training, development and wellness.

Knowledge

• Knowledge and understanding of ISO 17025.
• Knowledge and understanding of water analytical testing methodologies.
• Knowledge and understanding of water sampling standards.
• Understanding water sampling processes for various water sources.
• Knowledge and understanding of quality and SHERQ procedures.
• Management of customers’ requirements and expectations.