Laboratory Operator

September 10, 2024

SGS

Kathu

FULL TIME

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.

Job Description
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Preparation of samples for specific tests using the correct procedures and / or methods. Main work will consist of sample crushing, screening, milling, weighing, fluxing and fusions.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical

Preparation of samples for specific tests using the correct procedures and / or methods.
Main work will consist of sample crushing, screening, milling, weighing, fluxing and fusions.
Analysis of samples for specific tests using the correct application programs.
Assist with the maintenance and verification of instruments and apparatus.
Must have workable knowledge to calibrate and perform minor maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Administration

Tracking and collection of samples.
Deliver samples with their Job card to the laboratory for analysis.
Ensure that turnaround time is adhered to, for work specified in regard to general analysis.
Assist with filing Productivity documents at the end of each shift.
Assist with recording and filing of all equipment records for Quality purposes.
Sample disposal.
Record any day-to-day repairs, maintenance, calibration and verification of instruments performed.
To ensure that correct consumables and chemicals are used for analysis.

General

Assist with changing of gas cylinders.
Cleaning of the laboratory and immediate working area, including floors and equipment.
Ensure that quality procedures are complied with.
Ensure compliance with the Laboratory, company and mine Health and Safety programs.
Perform duties on all relevant workstations as required by the shift workload.
Must be willing to work overtime whenever necessary (at least two week-ends per month).
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.
Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager

SPECIFIC AUTHORITIES

Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to 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.
Analyzing 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.
Diagnose all suspect results and assist in rectifying the problem whether it is equipment or analytical.

Administration

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

Health and Safety

Responsible for Health, Safety and environmental procedures.
Attend toolbox talks, and any other HSE related meetings / training.
Perform Operational Risk Assessments and pre-start inspection checks on equipment.
Following SGS and UMK Safety Policies, COP’s and SOP’s.
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.
Assist with continuous improvement of systems within the Laboratory.
Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the management system.
Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by your direct line manager.
Attend Safety and Quality meetings as operational required.

COMPLIANCE & AUTHORITY

Compliant to all SGS QOH&S and HR policies and procedure
Granted sufficient authority to achieve the given responsibilities as per relevant SGS Authority policies

Responsible for daily safety and health of site employees (or those reporting to this site) on behalf of SGS upper management and for raising issues to SGS upper management where required
Ensure all people at the site are adequately inducted in safety and health for each area they are expected to work in
Ensuring safety and health inductions are carried out, documented and are relevant to the workplace
Ensuring all safety and health information, materials and resources are disseminated throughout the workforce as required.
Ensure all people at the site (or reporting to the site) have the skills, knowledge and ability required to undertake their work safely
Ensuring the whole site is kept up to a good standard of housekeeping at all times
Ensuring emergency plans are in place and practiced at regular intervals and that all emergency equipment is in place and is ready for use at any time
Responsible for the site’s performance in terms of injuries, illnesses, near misses and incidents
As far as able, prevent injury, manage injuries and facilitate early return to work programs at the workplace
Nominated Quality Management System representative for ISO 17025 for this site

Qualifications
Education and Requirements

Matric (Grade 12)
Previous Laboratory work experience.
Must have valid driver’s license. Transporting of samples on site.
Must reside in the Kuruman area.
Employment will be based on a fixed term contract.

REQUIRED SKILLS

On the job training will be provided as well as formal training.
At least two years sample preparation experience, preferably in a laboratory environment.
Computer Literate in LIMS, Word and Excel, but not essential.
Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Management System, but not essential
Double checks the accuracy of information and work product.
Expresses concern that things be done right, thoroughly or precisely.
Other Requirements
Must reside in the Kuruman area.
Willing to work overtime
Willing to work shifts
Flexible
Must pass a complete medical examination and induction training course.