Veterinary Technologist at RCL Foods

Job Description    
At RCL FOODS we see & do things differently - we think bigger, work smarter, and collectively work as a team towards achieving our ambition; more food to more people, more often!

The RCL FOODS Talent Team is currently looking for a qualified and experienced Veterinary Technologist with impressive interpersonal skills & problem-solving abilities to support the Rustenburg Laboratory with routine and non-routine serological/microbiological monitoring of flocks. Routine tests are performed to establish a history of all production units and flocks.
Minimum Requirements    

• Qualified Veterinary Technologist (registered with South African Veterinary Council) who has completed a 3-year Diploma or a Degree
• Around 2 years' experience in a SANAS ISO17025 accredited laboratory environment
• High level of Computer Skills relating to Microsoft Office, Excel in particular.
• Experience with the use of a LIMS and CRYSTAL reports are desirable.
• Principles, practices and theory of biological analysis, including emerging technologies.
• Mathematical and statistical knowledge and skills highly desirable.
• Complex testing and analysis.
• Applicable quality and environmental legislation and regulations.
• Health/safety/OHSA/ISO practices and regulations applicable to a laboratory.
• Advanced laboratory skills, critical thinking skills, ability to read scientific literature.
• Ability to work well in a team.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Performing of ELISA tests.
• Performing of rapid serum plate agglutinations (RSPA) when required.
• Performing of quality equipment checks and maintenance when required (e.g. pipettes, balance, temperature, reader, washer, etc.)
• Quality checks on kits and reagents after purchase before use in accordance with LPM/PUR/1.1
• Data capturing, compiling, and distribution of reports within one week upon receive date of samples.
• Capturing of data for Vet (Rearing Transfer Certificates).
• Sera will be correctly sampled, marked, packed, and sent to a subcontracting laboratory.
• Participating in Intra/inter-laboratory- and proficiency testing schemes.
• Postmortem sample collection when required.
• Subcontracting of samples (/ AI monitoring/ IBSN):
• Fill in Buying Requisition for PO number
• Sending of PO number with samples to the subcontracted laboratory
• Follow-up with subcontracted laboratory with regards to outstanding results.
• Sending of reports to customers (Farms)
• Filing and archiving (scanning) of all reports.
• Weekly stock take and expiry date checks.
• Ensure CPD points are obtained as per SAVC requirements.
• Registering of all incoming samples in the relevant sample register when required.
• Ensure that all tests/equipment are performed/operated as per procedure.
• Ensure that the Laboratory Manager/Veterinarian is informed immediately of any exceptional test result that may require action.
• Ensure that accurate written records of work in progress and a database with records are maintained in order to provide information when required.
• Ensure that all equipment in the department is maintained in a safe working condition and that specified items are check in accordance with the procedures for accuracy.
• Ensure customer satisfaction in respect of speed and accuracy.
• Logbooks must be filled in on a daily basis or by means of staff rotation.
• Inform Quality Supervisor / Laboratory Manager of stock levels of consumables when needed.
• Ensuring that the laboratory is kept neat and tidy at all times.
• Ensure that all health and safety rules are implemented and followed.
• Ensure productivity at all times.
• Assist in other departments when requested by the Laboratory Manager or the Quality Supervisor.