Laboratory Analyst - Centurion at PPECB

Job Description
The Laboratory Analyst will be responsible for the following:

• Implementation of Chromatographic Techniques, i.e. GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS, for the analysis of Pesticide residues in fresh produce and the     accompanying interpretation and evaluation of results. 
• Coordinating the activities of the laboratory technicians and interns, and optimizing the use of the equipment in the preparative section of the laboratory.
• Ensure service delivery to the customers - reporting of results within the documented turn-around time.
• Method validation - addition of new matrices and/or pesticide actives.
• Implementation of the Quality Management System (ISO17025).
• Communication and reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
• Self-management. 
• Minimize financial risks.
• Management of critical consumables

Job Requirements
Qualification required:

• Minimum qualification of a National Diploma Analytical Chemistry. 

Experience required:

•  At least 5 years of experience as a laboratory analyst working in an ISO 17025 accredited facility. 
•   Implementation of accredited test 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, and troubleshooting
•  Method validation and creation of validation reports according to EURACHEM regulations.
•  Analysis of pesticide residues using the QuEChERS extraction technique.

Key responsibilities:

•  Compliance to statutory requirements
•  Coordinates the use of analytical equipment to ensure maximum through-put in the laboratory
•  Maximize analytical volumes per day
•  Performs Internal verification of equipment (balances, volumetric flasks, pipettes)
•  Ensures that the accommodation and environmental conditions of the lab 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 authorizing 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 - 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