Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist at University of Cape Town

• We are inviting applications for Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist, fundamental to the success of research activities and operations within our dynamic group. The Quality Assurance Specialist works under supervision of the SATVI Laboratory Manager and in coordination and consultation with the Deputy Director, Immunology and SATVI Worcester Field Site Laboratory Manager. The position will be based in Cape Town with support for the Cape Town and Worcester laboratories. For more information on SATVI, visit www.satvi.uct.ac.za.

Requirements for the job:

• National Diploma in Biomedical Technology or a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Sciences (BHSc) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Health and/or Biological Sciences.
• Registration with the HPCSA, or equivalent, if applicable.
• A minimum of 5 years’ clinical research experience.
• 2 years’ experience in designing, implementing, and monitoring an ISO15189/17025 and/or GCLP quality management system.
• Knowledge and previous or Current Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP).
• Fluency in English and a working knowledge of Afrikaans or IsiXhosa.
• Computer literacy (Office 365)
• Valid Driver’s License and actively driving.

Advantageous

• DAIDS and NIH requirements for clinical trials.
• HSP (Human Subject Protection) / UCT Research Ethics Training (Module 4 & 5).
• Experience working with laboratory information or sample management systems.
• Knowledge of immunology laboratory assays and techniques.
• Knowledge of HR practices and principles.
• Excellent understanding of quality assurance and accreditation processes.
• Ability to train and educate staff on accreditation documentation.

 Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Sound administration skills.
• Strong organizational ability, including planning and prioritizing work.
• Sound decision-making ability, with flexibility to adapt as needed.
• Analytical thinking, with the ability to work independently and see the bigger picture.
• Good interpersonal skills, able to engage professionally at all levels.Innovation, initiative, and problem-solving orientation.
• Strong self-management, teamwork, and collaboration skills.
• Fair creativity and flexibility.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the SATVI Laboratory Quality Assurance Programme – oversee the Quality Management System (QMS), lead internal and external audits/monitoring visits and accreditation processes, administer document control, facilitate quality-related training, and manage non-conformances, risk and quality metrics.
• Laboratory Procedures – oversee environmental monitoring, equipment inventory, calibration/verification schedules, and staff training and competency programmes.
• Data Management – ensure quality laboratory data practices, ensure the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) remains aligned to the lab QMS and study requirements, manage data/record retention, and monitor key performance indicators.
• Contribution to Laboratory Operations – support inventory management, laboratory meetings, on-call staff, and laboratory health and safety compliance.

Deadline:26th October,2026