Laboratory Analyst: Environmental Laboratory

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that research, develops, localises and diffuses technologies to accelerate socio-economic prosperity in South Africa. The organisation's work contributes to industrial development and supports a capable state. The CSIR has a vacancy for a Laboratory Analyst: Environmental Laboratory in the

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that researches, develops, localises and diffuses technologies to accelerate socio-economic prosperity in South Africa. The organisation¿s work contributes to industrial development and supports a capable state.

Laboratory Analyst: Environmental Laboratory

About The Job

The CSIR Consulting and Analytical Services (CAS) unit has a vacancy for a Laboratory Analyst in the Environmental Analytical Laboratory in the Smart Places Cluster. The incumbent will be responsible for carrying out routine and specialised analyses in an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory, and deliver accurate, efficient and effective results at minimum turnaround times. This position is based in Stellenbosch.

The position reports to the Laboratory Manager.

For more information about the cluster please visit https://www.csir.co.za/what-we-do/natural-environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently conduct routine and specialised analysis for the laboratory.
• Independently set up, operate and verify performance of instrumentation (e.g. ICP -OES, ICP MS, FIA, Elemental Analysers, etc.).
• Interpret data scientifically against ISO 17025 quality criteria, industry/legislation
• related criteria and standards, and use specialist knowledge to ensure that correct
• and valid information is provided to clients and stakeholders.
• Validate standard analytical methods to prove `fitness for purpose¿
• Evaluate and improve accuracy, sensitivity, productivity, effectiveness, efficiency and detection limits of routine analytical methods.
• Perform scheduled instrument maintenance and troubleshooting/diagnostics to minimise downtime.
• Assist and/or facilitate the technical component of ISO 17025 requirements of the laboratory.
• Responsible for technical signatory for at least 20% of all accredited methods. Independently verify results against accepted quality and performance criteria (i.e. QC control charts, reference materials, duplicates, etc.).
• Carry out routine analyses for simple and complex methods/instruments in the laboratory independently within required quality, EHS and production parameters.

Qualifications, Skills And Experience

• A BTech or BSc in chemistry or related is required with a minimum of five years¿ experience in an accredited analytical lab is required.
• All international qualifications require an evaluation report / certificate issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in environmental labs.
• Must have experience as a technical signatory in a testing laboratory.
• Must be able to interact with peers and supervisors.
• Must be able to interpret analytical data for integrity and against known quality criteria.
• Must have sound knowledge of analytical chemistry as it relates to the operations of the laboratory.
• A firm understanding of Laboratory Information Management Systems will be an advantage.
• Good grasp of method validation processes.
• Computer literacy and competency in MS Office.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• A strong sense of responsibility is a key requirement.
• Attention to detail and the ability to work accurately and well under pressure.
• Competent in all routine methods in the laboratory.
• Adhere to the laboratory¿s quality system and EHS procedures.

What¿s in it for you?

The CSIR Offers

• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.

PLEASE NOTE THAT FEEDBACK WILL BE GIVEN TO SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES ONLY.

For more info, please contact the CSIR Recruitment Centre on 012 841 4774 or email us at ***email_hidden***

The CSIR is an equal opportunity employer. As such, it is committed to the Employment Equity Act and will through the filling of this vacancy, give preference to candidates from Designated Groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act. By applying for this position at the CSIR, the applicant understands, and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from registered credit bureau and/or South African Police Services (in relation to positions that requires trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances), and may also verify the applicant¿s educational qualification and employment history. The CSIR reserves the right to remove the advertisement at any time before the stated closing date and it further reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified.