Laboratory and Safety Coordinator (P000669) Readvertisement at North West University

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

• The Laboratory and Safety Coordinator is essential to ensure the efficient, safe, and legally compliant operation of the research facilities at the Biochemistry subject group and Biomedical and Molecular Metabolism Research (BioMMet). This role will provide dedicated oversight to laboratory operations, enforce safety protocols, and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Laboratory safety

• Audits, reports, meetings, inspections, legal compliance, supervision, after-hours availability, incident investigation, risk assessment, advanced safety courses.

Research and innovation:

• Reception, handling and distribution of chemicals and consumables.

Building and laboratory infrastructure & machinery

• Legal compliance, record keeping, maintenance, asset management, monitoring freezer breakdowns (after-hours).

Bio (human and animal) sample management

• Implement and maintain the necessary legal requirements related to the shipping, handling, tracking and disposal of biological (human and animal) samples.

Waste management

• Legal compliance, disposal, chemical handling (dangerous materials), storage.

Laboratory Administration

• Knowledge of KFS, general administration, record keeping.

Ad hoc tasks

• As directed by the Deputy Director.

Occupational Health and Safety

• Under health and safety law, each employee must take care of their health and safety and that of others who may be affected by the employee’s actions/omissions at work.

Minimum requirements

• Grade 12 (NQF level 4) 
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in general administration duties and asset management. 

RECOMMENDATIONS/ ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Basic laboratory safety and management 
• Knowledge of chemical handling 

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Problem solving, identifying issues & resolving 
• Effective time management
• Effective communication skills with students, colleagues & NWU Stakeholders
• Excellent computer skills with proven competency in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Language proficient in a multi-lingual environment

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to effectively work independently and in a team 
• Ability to function under pressure
• Natural innovator who strives for ‘best practice’ and technical advancement service.

Apply by: 12 January 2026