Senior Analyst-047-001

High level objectives

Implementation of analytical techniques for the analysis of pesticide residues in agricultural products and the accompanying interpretation and evaluation of results.

SANAS approved Technical Signatory to authorize the release of GC-MS/MS test results.
Coordinating the activities of the laboratory analysts, technicians and interns and optimizing the use of the equipment in the preparative section of the laboratory.
Ensure service delivery to the customers- reporting of results within the documented turnaround time.
Method validation - addition of new matrices and/or parameters.
Self-management.
Minimize financial risks.
Implementation of QMS (ISO17025).
Communication and reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
Self-management.
Minimise financial risk.
Management of critical consumables.

Job Requirements

Qualification required

Minimum qualification of a B. Tech / BSc Degree in Chemistry or equivalent

Experience Required

At least 5 years of relevant experience working as a Laboratory Analyst (or similar position) in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
Implementation of accredited methods, increasing the scope of accreditation and a particular understanding of the technical processes of GC-MS/MS instruments
Interpretation and evaluation of test results.
Trouble shooting of GC-MS/MS and other relevant equipment
Method validation and creation of validation reports according to EURACHEM regulations.
Internal auditing of the Quality Management System (QMS) according to ISO 17025
Performance management and review of personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Setting up and supervision of the Pesticide Laboratory (GC-MS/MS)
Compliance to statutory requirements
Coordinates the work of laboratory analysts, technicians and interns
Evaluation and Interpretation of results
Ensure results are sent to customer in a timely manner within the documented turn-around time
Ensure compliance to statutory methodology and Laboratory Quality management system, ISO 17025 procedures and SOPs
Oversee the method validation and creation of validation reports according to EURACHEM regulations.
Ensure that any changes are made to the methods if necessary
Ensure equipment maintenance and calibration
Participate in proficiency testing, analyze data and submits results
Performs Internal Verification of Equipment
Ensures that the accommodation and environmental conditions of the lab is controlled and records accordingly.
Populate and monitor QC charts
Checking quality and suitability of chemicals
Participate in meetings with the Department of Agriculture
Participate in meeting with internal and external stakeholders
Participate in meetings with clients
Advise the Laboratory management on achievements and shortcomings of Lab QMS (ISO 17025)
Effective communication and reporting that leads to improved internal relationships and decisions
Provide training to Laboratory Analyst and Technicians
Perform competency evaluations of Laboratory Analysts and Technicians
Mentoring and coaching of Laboratory Analysts and Technicians
Manage the annual performance motivation agreements of Laboratory Analysts and Technicians
Attend to and resolve customer complaints
Conformance to financial and control policies

Knowledge Required

In depth knowledge of ISO 17025 and SANAS requirements
Implementation of the LIMS for traceability.
Implementation of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques, and the accompanying interpretation and evaluation of results
Application of EURACHEM guidelines for method validation and uncertainty of measurement
Application of SANTE guidance documents for the method validation of pesticide residue analysis
Knowledge and understanding of local and international standards and regulations

Skills Required