Technical Laboratory Manager

SUMMARY:
A large manufacturer of food products based in Western Cape is looking to employ a Technical Laboratory Manager. The purpose is to take responsibility for the execution and continuous maintenance of the laboratory functions, procedures, and test methods; ensuring effective operation, maintenance, management and training of the laboratory employee compliment; and calibration of laboratory equipment and instruments on company sites; and the continual assurance of food safety and quality per the companies Food Safety and Quality Management System.

POSITION INFO:
Key duties and responsibilities

• The general operation, service and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and equipment
• Ensure calibration and verification checks are performed on laboratory instrumentation
• Manage the implementation, maintenance and improvement of an ISO Laboratory Management System
• Handling of general queries and requests from internal departments and external customers
• Conducting monthly safety checks as and where necessary
• Handling special COA requests
• Verification of test results and product information
• Conduct method validation and quality verification checks
• Investigate and report on questionable test results
• Responsible for laboratory functions and general tasks relating to food safety and quality
• Assist with training and verification of training effectiveness
• Participate in internal assessments and audits
• Ensure that cleanliness and safety standards are maintained in the Laboratory
• Assist with research projects and conduct test studies
• Interpret data and write reports
• Assist with the purchasing of Laboratory chemicals and consumables
• Preparing the Laboratory budget
• Ensure preparation and handling of product samples as per External Analysis Schedule
• Ensure adherence to Sampling Plans as per the Company policies and procedures
• Support, coach and mentor students and complete all administration as required for them

• BSc (Honors) Degree in Chemistry/ Biochemistry/ Microbiology or Food Sciences
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a Managerial Capacity
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a Laboratory
• Implementation of the ISO 17025 Management System
• Knowledge of Food Safety and Quality Management Systems (HACCP, ISO, and FSSC)
• Knowledge of specialized Laboratory instruments (GC, ICP, NIR, Lovibond, Spectrophotometer, HPLC-GC-MS)