Position Summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: Others: Education and Training
Location: Potchefstroom
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
About Our Company
NWU
Introduction
NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHESFTROOM CAMPUS) FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE POSITION NUMBER: P003261 VACANCY: QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICER PEROMNES GRADE: 8 EMPLOYMENT TYPE: PERMANENT APPOINTMENT
Job Description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
Implementing, maintaining, and improving the quality management system in accordance with ISO 15189 and other relevant accreditation standards. The role ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, enhances laboratory operations, and promotes a culture of continuous improvement within the facility. The Quality Assurance Officer reports directly to the Quality Assurance Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Implementation and maintenance of the Quality Management System (QMS)
- Assist the Quality Assurance Manager with the physical implementation of the quality management system.
- Develop, implement, and maintain the quality management system in accordance with ISO 15189 or related standards.
- Ensure all laboratory processes and procedures comply with accreditation and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor the effectiveness of the management system and recommend necessary improvements.
Compliance and auditing
- Conduct internal audits to assess compliance with quality standards.
- Perform routine spot checks to ensure adherence to documented procedures.
- Support external audits and accreditation assessments.
- Identify deviations from established procedures and initiate corrective/preventive actions.
- Ensure that all corrective and preventive actions are effectively implemented and documented.
- Monitor compliance with procedures and timelines.
Risk management and continuous improvement
- Identify risks and implement strategies to mitigate potential quality concerns.
- Ensure laboratory activities align with best practices for quality assurance.
- Collaborate with laboratory management to implement continuous improvement initiatives.
- Report on the performance of the quality management system and recommend enhancements.
Training and documentation
- Develop and conduct training sessions on quality management and compliance.
- Maintain accurate documentation and records related to quality assurance activities.
- Provide guidance to laboratory personnel to ensure adherence to quality policies and procedures.
Key Functional/ Technical Competencies
- In-depth knowledge of ISO 15189 accreditation standards.
- Proficiency in quality management principles, risk assessment, and root cause analysis.
- Experience conducting internal audits and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
- Strong documentation and report-writing skills.
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements for laboratory quality management.
- Ability to train and mentor laboratory staff on quality and compliance-related matters.
Key Behavioural Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal abilities.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Ability to function under high-stress situations
- Ability to work in a multi-linguistic and multi-cultural environment
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Commitment to maintaining a culture of continuous improvement and regulatory compliance.
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 9) in Medical Laboratory Science, Quality Management, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related.
- A minimum of five (5) years’ experience working in an accredited facility under ISO 15189 (preferable), ISO 9001 or ISO17025.
Added Advantages
- Certification in Quality Management Systems ISO 15189.
- HPCSA registration (Medical Scientist or Medical Technologist).
- Internal Auditing certification/training (proof must be provided).
Remuneration
The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Dr Elne Conradie on (elne.conradie@nwu.ac.za)
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Tirhani Baloyi on 018 285 2037
CLOSING DATE: 23 June 2025
PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible
Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
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