Laboratory Operator at SGS

Job Description
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Preparation of samples for specific tests using the correct procedures and / or methods. Main work will consist of sample crushing, screening, milling, weighing, fluxing and fusions.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical

• Preparation of samples for specific tests using the correct procedures and / or methods.
• Main work will consist of sample crushing, screening, milling, weighing, fluxing and fusions.
• Analysis of samples for specific tests using the correct application programs.
• Assist with the maintenance and verification of instruments and apparatus.
• Must have workable knowledge to calibrate and perform minor maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Administration

• Tracking and collection of samples.
• Deliver samples with their Job card to the laboratory for analysis.
• Ensure that turnaround time is adhered to, for work specified in regard to general analysis.
• Assist with filing Productivity documents at the end of each shift.
• Assist with recording and filing of all equipment records for Quality purposes.
• Sample disposal.
• Record any day-to-day repairs, maintenance, calibration and verification of instruments performed.
• To ensure that correct consumables and chemicals are used for analysis.

General

• Assist with changing of gas cylinders.
• Cleaning of the laboratory and immediate working area, including floors and equipment.
• Ensure that quality procedures are complied with.
• Ensure compliance with the Laboratory, company and mine Health and Safety programs.
• Perform duties on all relevant workstations as required by the shift workload.
• Must be willing to work overtime whenever necessary (at least two week-ends per month).
• Wait for the arrival of his / her relief at the end of the shift, to ensure smooth shift take over.
• Shift take over will only take place in the Laboratory building.
• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager

SPECIFIC AUTHORITIES

• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Analyzing of all analytical samples for specific analysis using the correct procedures and / or methods.
• Technical accuracy of results is monitored, and remedial action is taken when necessary and data is recorded (Evaluation of analytical results)
• Update internal findings, improvement request and keep minutes of internal meetings
• Reports are generated detailing analytical results, and can include opinions and interpretations
• Verifying of instruments.
• Assist with the maintenance of instruments and apparatus.
• Must have workable knowledge to calibrate and perform minor maintenance of laboratory and preparation equipment.
• Diagnose all suspect results and assist in rectifying the problem whether it is equipment or analytical.

Administration

• Report results within the time frame specified.
• Report any apparatus or equipment which, to your knowledge, is not functioning correctly to the HOD.
• Calculate all test results in a standard format as per relevant Test Method Instruction for each workstation.
• Transfer data from the instrument to LIMS
• All analytical data and calculations shall be made traceable and stored in the relevant files for that purpose or LIMS.
• Recording and filing of all equipment records for Quality purposes.
• Sample disposal
• Verify test results against control samples and charts.
• Re-analyze analysis samples when control results are not within the control charts limits

Health and Safety

• Responsible for Health, Safety and environmental procedures.
• Attend toolbox talks, and any other HSE related meetings / training.
• Perform Operational Risk Assessments and pre-start inspection checks on equipment.
• Following SGS and UMK Safety Policies, COP’s and SOP’s.
• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or enter hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Assist with continuous improvement of systems within the Laboratory.
• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the management system.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by your direct line manager.
• Attend Safety and Quality meetings as operational required.

COMPLIANCE & AUTHORITY 

• Compliant to all SGS QOH&S and HR policies and procedure
• Granted sufficient authority to achieve the given responsibilities as per relevant SGS Authority policies
• Responsible for daily safety and health of site employees (or those reporting to this site) on behalf of SGS upper management and for raising issues to SGS upper management where required
• Ensure all people at the site are adequately inducted in safety and health for each area they are expected to work in
• Ensuring safety and health inductions are carried out, documented and are relevant to the workplace
• Ensuring all safety and health information, materials and resources are disseminated throughout the workforce as required.
• Ensure all people at the site (or reporting to the site) have the skills, knowledge and ability required to undertake their work safely
• Ensuring the whole site is kept up to a good standard of housekeeping at all times
• Ensuring emergency plans are in place and practiced at regular intervals and that all emergency equipment is in place and is ready for use at any time
• Responsible for the site’s performance in terms of injuries, illnesses, near misses and incidents
• As far as able, prevent injury, manage injuries and facilitate early return to work programs at the workplace
• Nominated Quality Management System representative for ISO 17025 for this site

Qualifications
Education and Requirements

• Matric (Grade 12)
• Previous Laboratory work experience.
• Must have valid driver’s license. Transporting of samples on site.
• Must reside in the Kuruman area.
• Employment will be based on a fixed term contract.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• On the job training will be provided as well as formal training.
• At least two years sample preparation experience, preferably in a laboratory environment.
• Computer Literate in LIMS, Word and Excel, but not essential.
• Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Management System, but not essential
• Double checks the accuracy of information and work product.
• Expresses concern that things be done right, thoroughly or precisely.
•  Other Requirements
• Must reside in the Kuruman area.
• Willing to work overtime
• Willing to work shifts
• Flexible
• Must pass a complete medical examination and induction training course.