Analyst

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Ensure samples are prepared, processed and analyzed according to established methods and procedures in support of quality and management systems.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Performing tests

• Accurate handling, storage, retention and disposal of samples according to prescribed procedures.
• Preparation/supervising preparation of samples for analysis.
• Performing routine analysis on samples according to standard methods and procedures.
• Operate instruments according to specified procedures.
• Maintain records indicating maintenance, working conditions and quality control measures.
• Ensure good laboratory practices are followed – do not mess on any apparatus or instrument and if it should happen, clean up spills immediately before continuing.
• Ensure good laboratory practices are followed.
• Adhere to competency training program, keep competencies up to date.
• Assist in sections when and if so communicated; doing task and analysis you have been declared competent for.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager.

Planning of tests and evaluation of results under supervision

• Plan activities according to the sample volume and quantities received .
• Ensure customer service requirements for testing/analysis are met.
• Monitor and control stock levels of required chemicals and consumables.
• Evaluate results against quality control specifications.
• Adhere to sample turn-around timeframes.

Quality System.

• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Performing tests on all quality control samples according to standard methods and procedures.
• Accurately record results on QC charts.
• Evaluate results and report any deviation from quality control norms immediately.
• Record keeping of all control and reference sample results.
• Adhere to competency training program.
• Take part in Proficiency testing and submit results timeously.
• Investigate non conformances, customer complaints, Improvement requests.

Reporting opinions and interpretations under supervision

• Documenting of all relevant sample information.
• Report all results on SLIMS and / or designated worksheets.
• Calculation and record keeping of all analytical results.
• Adhere to ISO 17025 requirements in terms of record keeping and traceability.

Method modification and development under supervision

• Perform analysis and report results required for method and instrument validation.
• Report shortcomings and deviations and perform communicated actions to implement and improve new and existing methods and procedures.

Method validation

• Ensure the execution and finalization of method validation and associated work as they arise aligned to ISO 17025.
• Analytical method validation.

Health & Safety System

• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Actively participate in safety related activities.
• Always wear appropriate protective clothing.
• Adhere to all relevant HSE procedures and protocols.
• Awareness of the dangers of chemicals used through the study of MSDS.
• Keep workplace and equipment neat and tidy.
• Perform Health and Safety inspections in designated areas.
• Report deviations and communicate instructions to improve and maintain the quality system.
• Record keeping of all control and reference sample results.

Managerial duties

• Support operations and contribute to positive staff morale.
• Supervise and assist in training Lab technicians, lab assistants and interns.
• Ensure subordinate’s competencies are current.

Education

• Qualification in Chemistry, Food Technology (National Diploma or B Sc.)
• BSc Honours Chemistry or Masters with SACNASP registration an advantage
• Analytical Chemistry to support nutritional and chemical composition of matrices across the food value chains from inputs to waste
• Code 8 driver’s license

Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in LCMS / HPLC / GC / ICP-MS / wet chemistry techniques in a food testing laboratory that is ISO 17025 accredited
• Strong capabilities in LCMS / HPLC / GC / ICP-MS / NIR method development, validation and implementation
• High throughput routinized analytical testing in an ISO 17025 accredited facility

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Must not be colour blind
• Systematic
• Thorough
• Attention to detail
• Accurate
• Teamwork

SPECIFIC AUTHORITIES

• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or enter hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.
• Other specific authorities as indicated on the Agri Food Laboratory Designated Staff List.

COMPLIANCE & AUTHORITY

• Compliant to all SGS policies and procedure.
• Granted sufficient authority to achieve the given responsibilities as per relevant SGS Authority policies.