Laboratory Supervisor

Task Applied Science; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A clinical research institute is seeking a Full-time Laboratory Supervisor in Parow, Cape Town. This role involves supervision of laboratory staff, ensuring compliance with quality standards, and providing technical support in a TB microbiology lab. Ideal candidates should have a National Diploma or BSc in microbiology and at least 3 years of relevant experience, with demonstrated ability in team leadership and laboratory technologies.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years' experience in a TB microbiology lab or similar environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work with evolving laboratory technologies.
• Experience supervising staff in a laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Supervise day‑to‑day activities of the laboratory staff.
• Manage resources to meet laboratory goals.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Effective communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant National Diploma or BSc degree in microbiology

Job description

About the Company

TASK is a South African headquartered, multinational clinical research institute that conducts clinical trials to determine the treatment effects of novel medicinal products or devices in healthcare. It offers services in conducting complex clinical trials across a wide variety of therapeutic areas. TASK Laboratory comprises Bio‑Safety Level 2 and 3 (BSL‑2/3) laboratories, performing testing for drug‑susceptible and drug‑resistant TB using established diagnostic methods and new research platforms.

Overall Purpose of the Position

The role takes ownership of laboratory processes, ensures compliance with SOPs and quality standards, and upholds the integrity and reliability expected of TASK Laboratory. It provides first‑class clinical tuberculosis laboratory services by performing technical procedures and administrative duties and overseeing tasks delegated to laboratory staff within the scope of activities provided by the TASK laboratory for clinical drug trials.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs) & Responsibilities

• Supervise day‑to‑day activities of the laboratory staff (BSL‑3) to obtain maximised outcomes and ensure timely reporting of results and meeting the expected turnaround times.
• Motivate staff to complete tasks and process samples according to training and the most recent version of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
• Develop and implement practical continuous‑improvement processes.
• Provide support and training to foster a culture of responsibility that improves technician and technologist performance.
• Manage resources to consistently meet goals.
• Perform all tasks in accordance with the Health and Safety regulations of the OHS Act.
• Apply analytical skills to resolve critical issues and undertake troubleshooting whenever necessary.
• Manage sample collection and suitability for setup and analysis according to a specific schedule.
• Ensure equipment is used according to manufacturers' manuals and report faulty equipment promptly to the responsible person or management.
• Prepare reagents/media according to processes and procedures where applicable.
• Manage data requirements for efficient laboratory functioning and smooth running aligned with clinical requirements by addressing and resolving queries timely.
• Verify and interpret results; monitor quality and ensure results are delivered timeously to the source.
• Maintain a high standard of environment/workspace to avoid impacting clinical trial outcomes (e.g., cleanliness of the laboratory).
• Test quality of media/reagents used in the lab, troubleshoot if required, and report accordingly.
• Process MIC and draw up timelines for MIC results to be reported to sponsor and management.
• Process routine samples when required.

Ideal Requirements

• Relevant National Diploma or BSc degree in microbiology.
• At least 3 years' experience working in a TB microbiology lab or similar environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work with or adapt to evolving laboratory technologies (e.g., LIMS, automated platforms, digital data systems).
• Experience supervising staff and/or processes within a TB microbiology laboratory or similar environment.
• Experience working in a Biosafety Level 3 laboratory.
• Experience working in a clinical trial environment.

Key Personal Inherent Characteristics

• Highly focused individual with attention to detail who takes pride in the quality of their work.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage deadlines.
• Team player with diplomacy and tact.
• Ability to develop trusting and meaningful relations and remain professional.
• Effective communication skills.
• Analytical, problem‑solving, and follow‑up skills.
• Ability to plan and organise in a deadline‑driven environment.
• Ability to lead and motivate team.
• Embrace and adapt to change.
• Exhibits a structured, methodical approach to managing workloads and guiding staff.
• Displays professional maturity, accountability, and a strong sense of duty toward team and organisational objectives.
• Systems/efficiencies driven.

Location & Employment

Area: Parow, Cape Town
Contract Type: Permanent
Job Type: Full‑time
Meeting our employment equity goals will be acknowledged during the recruitment process.
Applications Close: 20 October