Medical Laboratory Technologist (Fixed Term Contract - Wits VIDA)

AJ Personnel

Johannesburg

ZAR 300 000 - 400 000

Job description

Background:

The Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Analytics (VIDA) Research Unit of the University of the Witwatersrand, formerly RMPRU (Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit) has for over 20 years conducted numerous studies to assess the burden of and prevent vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD)
Current studies and projects include infant rotavirus and BCG trials

Main purpose of the job:

To be a skilled healthcare professional and to play a critical role in processing patient samples, performing diagnostic tests and managing laboratory supplies/equipment

Key performance areas:
Sample testing and data analysis

Testing the samples as required by protocols and according to SOPs
Analyse results using relevant programs and report results to investigators
Re-run tests and follow up on incomplete tests as and when required as defined by protocol or as defined per work agreement

Sample management

Receive labelled and captured samples from clinic and various studies as defined by study protocols or required by the sponsor or PI
Check and verify that details on tubes and CRFs correspond
Process and store the samples as indicated in the study specific protocol or defined in relevant SOPs
Record all samples on study specific documents
Proper filing and archiving of records/documents for future reference or audits

Quality assurance and control

Complete QC as per study specific protocol/SOP with internal quality control in conjunction with relevant staff
Conduct and oversee the maintenance and calibration of equipment as per maintenance and calibration schedules
Prepare media and reagents to specification as required for testing
Management and storage of bio-hazardous waste and toxic materials as required
Timeously report all non-conformances including temperature excursions
Prepare and attend to audits as per notifications received from QAO, sponsor or external entity

Laboratory administrator

Manage logistical shipping process of infectious and biological substances from site to the designated location
Order laboratory consumables and equipment as and when required
Liaise with monitors and resolve queries
Monitor and control workflows and turnaround times
Perform relevant administration i.e., reporting, sample records etc.
Report any quality assurance issues to designated manager using correct, effective processes
Demonstrate cost consciousness and assist in meeting budgetary targets

Effective self-management and performance ownership:

Take ownership and accountability for all laboratory-related activities and demonstrate effective self-management
Follow through to ensure that quality and productivity standards of own work are consistently and accurately maintained
Maintain a positive attitude and respond openly to feedback
Take ownership for driving your own career development by participating in ongoing training and development activities

Required minimum education and training:

Required minimum work experience:

Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a medical microbiology, infectious disease or clinical pathology laboratory would be beneficial

Desirable additional education, work experience, and personal abilities:

Certification in good clinical laboratory practice (GCLP) and basic health and safety. Ordered, systematic and analytical
Exceptional organizational, attention to detail and administration skills with working knowledge of Microsoft Office and laboratory systems
Able to work under pressure and adhere to deadlines
Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Demands of the job:

Operates in a laboratory where health and safety must be always applied
Exposure to hazardous and infectious samples
Work in a pressurized environment with precise turn-around times for high sample volumes

TO APPLY:

Only if you meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV.
Please Apply Online and complete your registration via our website to enable and protect you as a candidate, and to accept the new POPIA terms and conditions.
This will then create your permanent profile with which you can apply for all jobs as advertised by AJ PERSONNEL.
However, you may remove your profile from AJ PERSONNEL when you are no longer in the job market.
Please take note that the applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position.
Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates.
Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications to be unsuccessful.
Closing date: 17 April 2025
Note: No CV will be accepted after the closing date.

Please note:

WHC, in accordance with its Employment Equity goals and plan, will give preference to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.
AJ Personnel is only responsible for advertising and the response handling on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium.
AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position.