Job Summary
Groote Schuur Hospital is seeking a skilled Laboratory Technician to join its laboratory team. The successful candidate will have 3-5 years of experience in hospital or clinical laboratory settings and will demonstrate proficiency in laboratory procedures, specimen handling, diagnostic testing, and quality control practices.
The Laboratory Technician will support medical scientists by conducting routine and specialized laboratory tests, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This role is critical to delivering timely, accurate diagnostic results that inform patient care.
Key Responsibilities
- Collect, label, and process biological specimens including blood, urine, stool, and tissue samples.
- Perform routine and specialized laboratory tests in hematology, biochemistry, microbiology, and serology.
- Prepare reagents, calibrate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, logs, and test reports.
- Monitor laboratory inventory, ensuring adequate stock of reagents, consumables, and equipment.
- Follow laboratory safety, infection control, and quality assurance protocols.
- Assist in troubleshooting laboratory instruments and resolving technical problems.
- Collaborate with clinicians, laboratory scientists, and hospital staff to deliver accurate and timely results.
- Participate in internal quality control programs, audits, and external laboratory assessments.
- Support research and specialized diagnostic projects when required.
Required Qualifications
- Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Laboratory Technology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field.
- 3-5 years of professional experience in clinical, hospital, or research laboratories.
- Knowledge of laboratory instruments, diagnostic procedures, and laboratory information systems (LIS).
- Understanding of quality control, quality assurance, and laboratory safety procedures.
- Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to work under pressure.
Skills and Competencies
- Laboratory Testing & Diagnostics
- Sample Collection & Processing
- Specimen Handling & Storage
- Reagent Preparation & Chemical Management
- Laboratory Equipment Maintenance & Calibration
- Quality Control & Quality Assurance
- Laboratory Documentation & Data Recording
- Clinical Laboratory Support
- Microbiology & Hematology Testing
- Infection Control & Laboratory Safety
- Laboratory Inventory Management
- Team Collaboration & Communication
- Troubleshooting Laboratory Instruments
- Research & Diagnostic Project Assistance
Benefits
- Competitive annual salary: ZAR 240,000 - ZAR 360,000
- Professional growth and continuing education opportunities
- Exposure to advanced laboratory and diagnostic technologies
- Supportive hospital environment with experienced staff
- Contribution to clinical research and community health initiatives