Scientist: Organic (Hay Level 15/C4) Internal and External at NECSA

Key Performance Areas

Financial recovery and Sustainability


Apply scientifically accredited and acceptable process steps to interpret data and provide technical solutions that are of exceptional quality and cost-effective
Perform analysis of ad-hoc samples for which validated methods do not exist by using acceptable laboratory practices to provide solutions to new challenges.
Report back accurately and clearly on assigned tasks within project framework


Technology Development and Improvement


Develop and validate methods and systems, in accordance with relevant standards to implement new applications to improve lab capabilities
Assist with funding proposals to ensure that appropriate actions (such as purchase of new instrumentation and hiring of staff) are implemented.
Collaborate with support functionaries to diagnose and find solutions to technical problems.
Facilitate instrument maintenance activities (planned and unplanned) including putting measures to prevent breakdowns that can make the lab unavailable for prolonged periods


Marketing


Develop factsheets to promote products and services for NLS.
Participate in scientific panels, working groups and scientific conferences at a national level to promote LS capabilities to the market.
Participate in at least two marketing events organized by the department in a year


Product development


Produce technical reports on projects or activities carried out.
Contribute to product development activities assigned to him/her.
Undertake product concept development activities assigned to him/her.


OHS, QMS and Regulatory Compliance


Attest to the performance of methods and instruments by using annually condensed reports on quality control data to ensure the improvement of quality control measures and analytical results.
Support the laboratory quality system (e.g. ISO/IEC 17025) accreditation and maintenance in accordance with activities allocated in terms of NLS Quality Resource Plan.
Participate in BBS activities.
Develop and revise procedures and protocols in line with national and international RC guidelines.
Lead investigations of technical non-conformances for applicable management systems to the lab.


Human Capital Development


Provide training on the theory and practical/experiments of techniques and methods in the areas of operation to ensure continued competence of technical personnel.
Provide training and practical assistance to lab technicians/analysts in basic lab practices, routine analysis and newly developed methods.
Prepare and supervise procedures for lab analysis, data handling and reduction, and the use of validated analytical methods.
Acquire and retain professional certification up-to-date and valid on an annual basis


Requirements

Job Requirements:

Key Knowledge & Skills:


The In-depth understanding and knowledge of GC, GC-MS, FTIR, IC, LC-MS, & HPLC equipment used in the organic laboratories.
Ability to perform trouble shooting on the above lab equipment and instrumentation.
Understanding / insight on project management skills.
Knowledge and understanding of international best practices such as GLP, GMP, ISO, ASTM, CTBTO, WHO, IAEA, etc.
The ability to perform the Chromatographic test analysis.
The ability to perform directed scientific methods/procedure development in the field of interest with minimal guidance
The ability to operate selected instruments/ equipment/ apparatus and to interpret the results
The ability to integrate and interpret analytical data from different techniques
The ability to write experimental reports and to make oral presentations with colleagues, peers, etc.
Computer literate and the ability to understand, learn and apply new software as required.


Competencies (Job Specific and Behavioral):


You will need to pass a pre-employment and a routine annual medical examination to be eligible to perform duties associated with this position.
You will have to work as a registered radiation and chemical worker by passing all the in-house training to be given to you in this regard.
Work is almost exclusively in laboratories where you will have to wear protective clothing.
Some degree of lifting and heavy work is common with the daily moving of files, instrument and supplies.


Behavioural Competencies


Analytical Thinking and Attention to detail
Problem Solving
Motivation to Learn
Safety oriented
Customer service oriented
Effective communication
Judgement and decision making
Creativity and Innovation


Minimum Qualifications:


BSc Honours Degree in Chemistry - or Physics
MSc will be an added advantage


Minimum Experience:


5-7 years of experience working with laboratory instruments such as GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, etc. in an Organic lab.
5-7 years practical experience of Microsoft Excel, MS Word, Power Point, Share Point, and LIMS.
Certificate in SANAS ISO/IEC 17025 Systems and ISO 9001.
Be eligible to be registered as Radiation & Chemical Worker
Professional Certification in Natural Sciences or legible for certification (i.e. SACNASP)