AssureCloud Microbiology Analyst, Port Elizabeth at SafetySA

Purpose:

• The Microbiology Laboratory Analyst is responsible for planning and performing microbiological testing on samples submitted to the laboratory, ensuring quality, accuracy and adherence to required turnaround times.
• The role includes conducting tests, verifying results, maintaining laboratory instruments, and ensuring compliance with ISO 17025 and organizational OHS and quality standards. As an ambassador for AssureCloud, the Analyst is expected to uphold and promote the company’s brand, values, and service promise.

Responsibilities:

Performing Analysis

• Conduct routine and complex microbiological tests independently.
• Perform sample preparation, culturing, enumeration, and identification.
• Perform troubleshooting of methods, equipment, and test deviations.
• Ensure strict adherence to aseptic techniques and microbiological best practices.

Verification of Results

• Verify and interpret microbiological results against known standards and reference data.
• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and reliability of all test results.
• Record and release results into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Technical Improvements

• Identify opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency and workflow.
• Assist in method optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.

Adherence to Turnaround Times (TAT)

• Prioritize and schedule work to meet departmental turnaround times.
• Provide early warning notifications to the supervisor regarding potential TAT delays.

Instrument Monitoring and Maintenance

• Oversee daily performance and operation of microbiology laboratory equipment.
• Ensure proper cleaning, disinfection, calibration, and maintenance.
• Report service, repair, and calibration needs promptly to management.

Health, Safety & Quality Assurance

• Comply with Occupational Health and Safety regulations and laboratory biosafety protocols.
• Follow ISO 17025 quality system requirements and contribute to audit readiness.
• Implement corrective actions relating to quality issues in the area of responsibility.
• Maintain acceptable proficiency testing scores.

Cost Management

• Monitor and maintain adequate stock levels of consumables, reagents, and media.
• Use laboratory resources responsibly to manage costs effectively.

Training & Development

• Complete all mandatory laboratory training and competency assessments.
• Identify additional training needs and request approval where appropriate.
• Participate in peer training and mentorship when required.

Client Liaison

• Maintain professional and effective communication with internal clients.
• Support operational teams with technical input where needed.

General & Business Development

• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality systems, and brand standards.
• Complete reports, documentation, and administrative tasks accurately and timeously.
• Use IT systems and tools as required by company procedures.
• Participate in broader AssureCloud initiatives and uphold company values.
• Perform additional duties within scope, as requested.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• BSc Degree in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Food Science (with Microbiology major), or Medical Laboratory Science; or
• National Diploma in Biotechnology or Microbiology

Additional advantageous training:

• ISO 17025 Internal Auditor Training
• Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)
• HACCP or Food Safety Training
• Occupational Health & Safety Training

Experience:

• 1–2 years’ practical experience in a microbiology laboratory.
• Experience with classical microbiological methods: culturing, enumeration, isolation, identification.
• Experience working within an ISO 17025 accredited environment.
• Familiarity with microbiological equipment: incubators, autoclaves, biological safety cabinets, pH meters, colony counters.
• Experience with LIMS and laboratory documentation practices.
• Experience troubleshooting microbiological methods or contamination events.

Skills:

Technical Skills

• Excellent aseptic technique.
• Ability to conduct routine and complex tests independently.
• Strong interpretation and analytical capability.

Operational Skills

• Time management and workload planning.
• Accurate data entry and documentation.
• Stock control and inventory awareness.
• Computer literacy with relevant Microsoft Suite skills.

Communication and Collaboration 

• Ability to communicate professionally with internal stakeholders.
• Effective reporting of delays, non-conformances, and quality issues.
• Client interactions and client communication. 

Soft skills

• High attention to detail.
• Accountability and reliability.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Commitment to continuous improvement.

Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of microbiological testing methods (pour plate, spread plate, membrane filtration, Gram staining, etc.).
• Knowledge of indicator and pathogenic organisms (e.g., E. coli, coliforms, Listeria, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, yeast and mould).
• Understanding of quality systems including traceability, validation, measurement uncertainty.
• Knowledge of biosafety levels, autoclave processes, and decontamination procedures.
• Awareness of proficiency testing requirements.

Other:

• Willingness to work weekends and public holidays where needed.

High degree of professional ethics and values aligned with:

• Integrity
• Courage
• Care
• Passion
• Innovation
• Accountability
• Preference will be given to Employment Equity candidates