Lead Analytical Chemist — Drive Lab Innovation & Leadership

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

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,