Microbiology Technician

SGS; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading testing and certification company in Cape Town is seeking a Microbiology Technician to manage daily laboratory operations. The role involves conducting analyses, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and maintaining high-quality outcomes. Candidates must hold a National Diploma in Biotechnology or Microbiology, along with relevant experience in laboratory settings.

Qualifications

• Experience in duties related to laboratory functions.
• Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation.
• Ability to follow quality and safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine analysis and tests according to standards.
• Document sample information and analytical results accurately.
• Maintain laboratory safety and quality standards.

Skills

Good communication skills

Understanding laboratory operations

Education

National Diploma in Biotechnology / Microbiology

Job description

Company Description

SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance, and sustainability.

Job Description

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Microbiology Technician is responsible for day to day functions in the Microbiology section of the Food Laboratory, as well as sample analysis and reporting according to established analytical methods and procedures.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Performing tests

• Accurate registration, storage, retention and disposal of samples according to prescribed procedures.
• Preparation of samples and media.
• Performing routine analysis on samples according to standard methods and procedures
• Operate instruments according to specified procedures
• Maintain records indicating maintenance, working conditions and quality control measures
• Ensure good laboratory practices are followed
• Adhere to competency training program and keep competencies up to date.
• Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by direct line manager and/or Senior Microbiologist.

Planning of tests and evaluation of results

• Plan activities according to the sample volume and quantities received.
• Ensure customer service requirements for testing/analysis are met.
• Monitor and control stock levels of required chemicals and consumables.
• Adhere to sample turn-around timeframes.
• Evaluate results under supervision against quality control specifications

Reporting opinions and interpretations

• Documenting of all relevant sample information
• Calculation and record keeping of all analytical results.
• Report all results on appropriate and designated worksheets.

Quality & Health & Safety System

• Adhere to all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
• Actively participate in safety related activities.
• Always wear appropriate protective clothing.
• Adhere to all relevant HSE procedures and protocols.
• Awareness of the dangers of chemicals used through the study of MSDS.
• Keep workplace and equipment neat and tidy.
• Perform Health and Safety inspections in designated areas.
• Report deviations and communicate instructions to improve and maintain the quality system.
• Record keeping of all control and reference sample results.
• Support operations and contribute to positive staff morale.
• Perform any other reasonable task assigned by management.

Specific Authorities

• Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or entry to hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection, and take action to address the hazard.
• Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and take action to address the issue.
• Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.

Qualifications

Education

• Minimum National Diploma in Biotechnology / Microbiology with experience in duties described in above (Clause 3.1) at undergraduate level.

Experience

• Understanding the operations, maintenance and operational requirements of instrumentation used in the laboratory.
• Good communication skills.

Competencies

• Knowledge of laboratory functions and applications
• Maintenance of service quality to customers