Job Openings Laboratory Administrator

About the job Laboratory Administrator

We are currently recruiting for a Laboratory Administrator for a client. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing laboratory operations, supervising a small team, and ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards. This includes supervising and performing tests on animal feed samples, ensuring ISO, HACCP, GMP, and regulatory compliance, as well as managing the maintenance of laboratory equipment and documentation.

The ideal candidate will possess supervisory experience, have knowledge of laboratory testing protocols, and demonstrate proficiency in quality assurance practices. Experience with ISO22000 and a background in laboratory environments are essential for this role.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise and lead a team of laboratory technicians, fostering positive working relationships and ensuring effective communication.

Assist in the development and performance management of staff, driving productivity and team performance.

Ensure the smooth operation of laboratory processes and resolve any staff-related issues or concerns.

2. Quality & Food Safety Compliance:

Oversee and ensure compliance with product and service quality standards, food safety protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Perform regular testing of animal feed samples to ensure nutritional content, contaminant levels, and conformance to relevant standards.

Ensure adherence to ISO22000, HACCP, GMP, and other regulatory standards, maintaining a safe and hygienic laboratory environment.

3. Laboratory Testing & Equipment Maintenance:

Ensure all laboratory testing is conducted accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining proper documentation and test results.

Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment in line with SOPs, ensuring equipment is in optimal working condition.

Monitor and investigate Critical Control Points (CCPs) and Operational Prerequisite Programs (OPRs) to ensure compliance with company standards.

4. Documentation & System Management:

Ensure accurate records of all test results, findings, and laboratory activities are maintained and stored in line with company procedures.

Manage all returned stock, coordinating necessary testing and ensuring compliance with internal quality standards.

Assist with implementing and maintaining SOPs for laboratory operations, ensuring all documentation is up-to-date and compliant.

5. Internal Audits & External Inspections:

Perform internal audits and facilitate external inspections as part of lab accreditation processes.

Investigate any non-conformances and implement corrective and preventive actions as needed.

6. Health & Safety Compliance:

Maintain a clean, safe, and hazard-free work environment, ensuring personal hygiene standards are upheld.

Ensure staff comply with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies, participating in health and safety activities and reporting any unsafe conditions.

Required Education & Experience:

  • National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) or equivalent.

  • 1 year of experience in supervising a team in a similar environment.

  • 2 years of experience in office and system administration.

  • Valid RSA drivers license with own transport.

  • Knowledge of ISO22000 is highly advantageous.

  • Previous experience in a laboratory setting is preferred.

Required Skills & Competencies:

Core Competencies:

Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage deadlines effectively.

Coping with Pressure: Remains calm and focused in high-pressure situations.

Integrity & Work Ethics: Upholds professional standards and demonstrates honesty.

Accuracy & Attention to Detail: High level of precision in work and documentation.

Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze problems and provide practical solutions.

Work Independently: Capable of working autonomously with minimal supervision.

Well Organized: Ability to maintain efficient workflow and operations.

Functional Competencies:

Problem-Solving: Ability to resolve issues and challenges promptly.

Continuous Improvement: Actively seeks ways to improve processes and efficiency.

Prioritizing: Organizes work to ensure critical tasks are completed first.

Reporting & Data Analysis: Ability to collect, analyze, and report data effectively.

Building Work Relationships: Works well with others to achieve common goals.

Critical Thinking: Attention to detail and ability to identify key issues.

Technical Competencies:

MS Office (Intermediate level, including Outlook, Word, Excel).

SharePoint (Intermediate level).

Knowledge of Quality Control and Assurance Processes.

Understanding of Food Safety Protocols and Systems.

Familiarity with regulations such as ISO 22000, HACCP, TACCP, and VACCP.