Laboratory Operations Lead – QA, ISO17025 & Growth

Farm Manager SA; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

Farm Manager SA in Western Cape, South Africa, seeks a Laboratory Supervisor / Assistant Manager to lead daily lab operations and ensure ISO17025 compliance. The role covers nonconformity handling, personnel management, and business development within a growing agricultural testing context.

The successful candidate will oversee testing methods, customer liaison, and procurement while maintaining high quality and safety standards in a dynamic laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum 2 years in fruit quality management.
• Expert skill in the methods used in the laboratory.
• Current knowledge of methods and objectives of tests.
• Deep knowledge of SANAS accreditation/ILAC documents and applicable standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily laboratory operations.
• Authorise resumption of work after nonconforming results.
• Manage HR aspects including contracts and salaries.
• Responsible for business development and identifying new markets.
• Develop marketing strategies and budget for the lab.
• Liaise with customers and address queries or complaints.
• Implement ISO17025 and other relevant guidelines.
• Manage stock control and procurement procedures.
• Troubleshoot equipment and lab techniques.
• Ensure turnaround times are met.
• Develop and implement new methods to meet customer requirements.
• Implement master validation plan and method validation procedures.
• Ensure personnel are trained and training schedules are in place.
• Maintain good housekeeping and health & safety systems.
• Ensure audit trails and service agreements are fulfilled.

Skills

Managing Projects

Managing Budgets

Managing Conflicting priorities

Creative problem solving

Education

Tertiary diploma or degree

Job description

Farm Manager SA in Western Cape, South Africa, seeks a Laboratory Supervisor / Assistant Manager to lead daily lab operations and ensure ISO17025 compliance. The role covers nonconformity handling, personnel management, and business development within a growing agricultural testing context.

The successful candidate will oversee testing methods, customer liaison, and procurement while maintaining high quality and safety standards in a dynamic laboratory environment.