Job Description

Company Description
We are SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. Our 93,000 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chemist will be responsible for all analysis of samples in the most accurate and productive way and timely as per relevant Test Method Instruction, assist the Section Manager in ensuring compliance with the SGS Laboratory Quality Manual as well as Health and Safety procedures.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical

• Analysing 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.
• Early identification of biases and QC issues and immediate communication of these to the Section Manager
• Diagnose all suspect results and assist in rectifying the problem whether it is equipment or analytical.
• Address client complaints
• Authorize and validated any new methods under the guidance of the Section Manager.

Administration

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

General

• Assist with changing of gas cylinders and the maintenance of other equipment.
• Overseeing the cleaning of the laboratory and immediate working area.
• Ensure that quality procedures are complied with.
• Ensure compliance with the Laboratory Health and Safety Act.
• Perform duties on all relevant workstations as required by the shift workload.
• Must be willing to work overtime whenever necessary.
• 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.
• Assist on any lower or above level when necessary
• Assist with the training of new staff / operators on new methods and / or procedures.
• Participate and form part of Operational Integrity projects and campaigns
• Apply Check status process and use the Stop Work Authority whenever the control of risks is not clearly established and understood
• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager.

Supervising

• Assist with the training on new methods and /or procedures.
• Control the time keeping on the shift.
• Plan leave in such a way that overtime is kept to a minimum.
• Check on daily staff attendance and address any problem timelessly and Pro-actively.
• Ensure that there are sufficient Staff members on shift.

Production

• Plan leave in such a way that overtime is kept to a minimum.
• Check on daily staff attendance and address any problem timelessly and Pro-actively.
• Ensure that there are sufficient Staff members on shift.

COMPLIANCE & AUTHORITY

• Report any faulty and/or nonfunctioning apparatus or equipment to the immediate superior.
• Each staff member has the authority to cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard and/or work that may affect the quality or integrity of test results.
• Any person has the right to refuse to perform work that may damage the environment in an imminent and serious way and to report such a situation.
• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to hazardous environments without necessary knowledge and protection and take action to address the hazard.
• Cease to carry out work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and take action to address the issue.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Implementation and maintenance of the quality system.

Qualifications
Education

• National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry
• BTech Chemistry or BSc Chemistry will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience in an analytical chemistry laboratory
• Operational experience in a SANAS 17025 accredited facility
• Experience in instrumentation, data collection and reporting
• Supervisory experience would be an advantage
• Fully acquainted with the SLIMS system (administration & operation).

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Management System
• Must be able to do troubleshooting on instruments and methods used.
• Must know how to verify calibration standards / quality control standards / verification / standards and Certified Reference Materials (CRM's).
• Managing Good Laboratory Practice.
• Assisting the Snr Chemist with

• Preparation of SANAS audits.
• Managing laboratory documentation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a variety of personalities
• Ability to consistently meet deadlines
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Superb organizational skills
• Ability to multi-task and handle several issues simultaneously
• Ability to maintain a positive and professional attitude when dealing with escalated issues
• Willing to work overtime
• Willing to work shifts