Group Leader - Media Preparation at Fall Creek

POSITION SUMMARY:  

This position requires an understanding of the Transfer Room, Media Preparation room, lab processes and production data. This position records equipment and media dispense data. They are responsible for dispensing of media, stock control, movement of media to storage areas and movement of waste. The Group Leader is responsible for seeing that the Lab Technicians are performing their work in a safe and efficient manner. They need to be capable of balancing multiple tasks.    

ORGANIZATIONAL FIT:  

• This position reports to the Media Prep Lead Technician /Supervisor and works closely with other lab employees.  

JOB SETTING:  

• Laboratory setting. Some travel may be required.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Must be able to sit or to stand up for long periods of time.  
• Position will perform repetitive work using fine motor skills. Requires manual dexterity.  
• Must be able to work with chemical products.  
• Must be able to lift 30 pounds (15 kilograms) 
• Must be able to climb up a step-ladder to put away supplies/media. 
• Comfortable operating around heat-generating equipment 
• Ability to work under aseptic conditions 
• Ability to work in a high-volume environment 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (Other duties may be assigned)  

• Responsible for gathering culture media from staging areas and allocating the media to lab technicians.  
• Responsible for checking cleanliness of washed containers and contamination checks on prepared media batches.  
• Responsible for labelling and storage of media. 
• Gathers and records media production and performance data to monitor productivity. 
• Assists in training new employees in washroom and media prep. 
• Maintains the cleanliness and safety of the lab according to established safety procedures and standards. 
• Cross trains with other positions in the lab. 
• Keeps the Media Prep Lead Technician / Supervisor apprised of relevant issues and problems in a timely manner. 
• Ensures the safe keeping of proprietary varieties and confidential information. 
• Assures the highest level of confidentiality on sensitive matters concerning the nursery. 
• Supports, perpetuates, and enhances Fall Creek’s core values and corporate culture. 
• Other duties as assigned.  

REQUIRED EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAINING  

• Typically requires a National Senior Certificate 
• Knowledge of working with Microsoft Office Suite.  
• Must be able to read and follow detailed instructions, directions, and protocols in English and Afrikaans.  
• Requires a high attention to detail and the ability to observe small deviations.  
• Requires the ability to be highly organized in handling materials, equipment, and supplies.  
• Ability to collaborate with other team members, develop strong relationships, and maintain a positive attitude.  
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.  
• Ability to work in a clean environment with limited access to the outdoors.  
• Regular and reliable attendance at the primary place of business.  
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position.  
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work well with people from different cultural backgrounds.  
• Must demonstrate professional and ethical business practices, adherence to company values, and a commitment to personal and professional development.  
• Must be able to demonstrate communication skills in English.   
• Knowledge of Excel, and Word.  
• Requires the ability to be highly organized in handling materials, equipment, and supplies. 
• Basic computer skills for data entry and printing reports.  

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS  

• Experience working in a biology laboratory setting.  
• Knowledge of laboratory terminology and equipment.  
• Detail oriented and patient. 
• Ability to work with deadlines. 
• Enthusiasm for learning. 
• Interest in working with plants.  
• Ability to communicate.