AMD Senior Technician (Chemistry) at The Biovac Institute

Job description

Biovac is the only company in South Africa, and one of a few in Africa, focussed on human vaccine development and manufacture. It plays a significant part in contributing to the bioeconomy of South Africa. As a centre of excellence in Africa, Biovac continues to expand its platform technologies to support product development and manufacture with the aim of responding to vaccine needs in Africa and other developing countries.A recent product development project opportunity has created the need for an energetic, creative and highly motivated Senior Technician within the Science and Innovation (S&I) Department at Biovac.

The successful incumbent will be based in Cape Town and will be joining at a particularly exciting time for the company as it continues to strengthen and build on its successes to further develop its capabilities, products, services and market diversification. He/She will report to the S&I Analytical Method Development Group Leader and will be part of a dynamic team working on the development of novel vaccines.

The Key Performance Areas for this position include

• The Senior Technician will be responsible for the technical delivery in support of the AMD chemistry activities including but not limited to:
• Provide technical support to AMD scientists and senior scientist.
• Execution of chemical assays in support of fermentation, purification, conjugation and formulation activities.
• Manage routine and project buffer and device preparation activities.
• Overseeing laboratory monitoring systems on equipment and utilities.
• Managing the facility routine and project activities ensuring uninterrupted operations.
• Ensure compliance with respect to company safety and biosafety regulations and policies.
• Maintain high performance and innovative team culture.
• Adherence to current regulations and guidelines - both local (Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965, Pharmacy Act 53 of 1974) and internation

Preferred Candidate specifications:

• A Degree or diploma qualification with experience in the relevant discipline, for example Biomedical Technology or analytical chemistry.
• Good understanding of and experience with analytical chemistry.
• Pharmaceutical industry experience as a laboratory technician or manager will be highly advantageous.
• Strong data capturing and technical writing skills.
• Sound leadership capability within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Good decision-making skills.
• Ability to communicate and relate well with people at all levels.
• Self-starter, with a drive for excellence and high standards.
• Ability to effectively prioritize multiple tasks and responsibilities.

The following would be advantageous

• Knowledge of cGMP (SA, PIC/S, WHO) and GLP guidelines.

Other requirements:

• Local travel may be required.
• Own, reliable transport required for possible standby and shift work.
• Flexible working hours, including weekends and night shifts.

The position is a long-term fixed contract position with the opportunity for permanent employment. An annual salary which is competitive in the research and development sector in SA will be negotiated relevant to experience.