Lead Analytical Chemist

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Education & training

Access to cutting-edge equipment

Collaborative environment

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape, seeks a Lead Analytical Chemist to spearhead the analytical chemistry department, ensuring high-quality data and compliant laboratory operations. You will lead a team of chemists, design and validate new methods, and provide critical analytical support across diverse research projects.

The role requires MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, 7+ years in the field with supervisory experience, proven mastery of instruments (HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR,

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry required.
• 7+ years hands-on analytical chemistry experience, with supervisory/leadership exposure.
• Proven ability to develop and validate methods per international standards.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems (ISO 17025).
• Excellent problem-solving, leadership and communication skills.
• Experience in Northern Cape or similar environments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the analytical chemistry department, overseeing daily operations.
• Develop, validate, and implement advanced analytical methods for diverse sample matrices.
• Perform complex chemical analyses using HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and spectroscopy.
• Ensure the accuracy, precision, and reliability of all analytical data generated.
• Troubleshoot instrument malfunctions and method issues.
• Train and mentor junior analytical chemists.
• Maintain comprehensive records of analytical procedures, results, and instrument calibration.
• Collaborate with research teams to provide critical analytical support.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in analytical chemistry and instrumentation.
• Uphold the highest standards of laboratory safety and quality assurance.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical chemistry

Method development

Method validation

HPLC

GC-MS

ICP-MS

NMR

FTIR

UV-Vis

Quality systems

Problem solving

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prominent entity in the Scientific Research & Development sector, actively seeking an accomplished Lead Analytical Chemist. This crucial role is situated in Kimberley, Northern Cape, a region known for its growing scientific community. The successful candidate will spearhead analytical chemistry initiatives, ensuring the precision and reliability of experimental results. This position demands a deep expertise in analytical techniques, a meticulous approach to quality control, and the leadership skills necessary to guide a team of chemists. You will be at the forefront of developing and validating new analytical methods essential for our client's diverse research projects. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to significant scientific advancements while working within a well-equipped laboratory and a supportive professional environment in Kimberley. The role requires a strong commitment to scientific rigor and a proactive attitude towards problem-solving. We are looking for an individual who can inspire confidence and drive innovation in analytical science.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the analytical chemistry department, overseeing daily operations.
• Develop, validate, and implement advanced analytical methods for diverse sample matrices.
• Perform complex chemical analyses using techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and spectroscopy.
• Ensure the accuracy, precision, and reliability of all analytical data generated.
• Troubleshoot instrument malfunctions and method issues.
• Train and mentor junior analytical chemists.
• Maintain comprehensive records of analytical procedures, results, and instrument calibration.
• Collaborate with research teams to provide critical analytical support.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in analytical chemistry and instrumentation.
• Uphold the highest standards of laboratory safety and quality assurance.

Requirements

• MSc or Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 7 years of hands-on experience in analytical chemistry, with a significant portion in a lead or supervisory role.
• Expertise in operating and maintaining advanced analytical instrumentation (HPLC, GC-MS, ICP-MS, NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis).
• Demonstrated experience in method development and validation according to international standards.
• Strong knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 17025).
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working in the Northern Cape region or similar environments is preferred.

Benefits

• Attractive salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for further education and specialized training.
• Access to cutting-edge analytical equipment.
• A collaborative and progressive research environment.
• Career growth prospects in a leading scientific organization.