Mechanical Laboratory Technical Specialist

Aleon Pty Ltd; Middelburg; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading testing laboratory is seeking a Production Technician to ensure high-quality testing standards in their Mechanical Laboratory. The successful candidate will conduct a variety of tests, optimize processes, and maintain quality control systems. Required qualifications include a BEng or BSc (Hons) in Material Science and at least 2 years of relevant experience. Ideal candidates will possess strong problem-solving skills, technical knowledge in mechanical and metallurgical testing, and a proactive approach to quality assurance.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant laboratory experience at technician level.
• Experience as a Technical signatory in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory is an advantage.
• In-depth problem solving and root cause analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Ensure quality of testing in the Mechanical Laboratory meets business standards.
• Conduct non-routine test work and develop new test methods.
• Perform validations and compile validation documentation.
• Commission equipment and instruments per laboratory standards.
• Maintain quality control systems for valid testing.
• Perform internal calibrations/verifications on equipment.
• Evaluate quality‑critical suppliers.

Skills

Knowledge of mechanical and metallurgical testing

Quality control systems

Data analysis and interpretation

Computer literacy

Conflict resolution

Coaching and mentoring

Education

BEng (Metallurgy and Material Science) or BSc. (Hons) Material Science

BSc. (Hons) Material Science

Tools

Calibration equipment

Testing equipment principles

Job description

JOB SPECIFICATION

The Mechanical Laboratory has a Production Technician vacancy. The successful incumbent will be responsible for:

• Ensuring that the quality of testing performed in the Mechanical Laboratory is in line with the required standards of the business and the laboratory.
• Conducting non-routine test work, continuous optimization of processes, development of new test methods, improving existing test methods, solving technical problems and ensuring that all relevant systems are updated, and changes implemented accordingly.
• Perform validations, identify criteria for revalidation as well as compile validation documentation.
• Commission equipment and instruments in line with the required Laboratory practices and procedures.
• Maintain and improve current quality control systems to ensure validity and accuracy of testing.
• Perform the required internal calibrations and/ or verifications on relevant equipment.
• Evaluate quality critical suppliers.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Minimum qualification required is a BEng (Metallurgy and Material Science / BSc. (Hons) Material Science.
• A minimum of 2 years’ relevant laboratory experience at technician level in testing and quality management.
• Possess knowledge of mechanical and metallurgical testing and processes, statistics and quality control systems, testing equipment principles, root cause analysis, method development and method validation, as well as data analysis and interpretation.
• Must be computer literate.
• Experience as a Technical signatory in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory will be an added advantage.
• Technical skills required; Mechanical and metallurgical testing and equipment, statistics, quality principles, in depth problem solving and root cause analysis.
• Basic people management skills required include conflict resolution, coaching and mentoring and written and oral communication.
• Personal competencies required; time management, initiative, attention to detail, integrity, self-discipline, proactive, sound judgement and ability to work independently.