Senior Microbiologist

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Modern facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead the microbiology laboratory operations, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of analyses for a diverse client base including water utilities, industry, and food producers.

You will develop and implement new testing methodologies, uphold QA/QC standards (ISO 17025), mentor staff, and provide clients with expert technical support, while contributing to continuous improvement in a state‑of‑the‑art facility.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in clinical/environmental/industrial microbiology.
• Expertise in broad microbiological techniques incl. culturing, identification, enumeration, and molecular methods.
• Knowledge of ISO 17025 and QA/QC.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all laboratory operations from receipt to analysis.
• Perform advanced microbiological testing including culturing, microscopy, and PCR.
• Develop and validate new testing methodologies.
• Ensure QA/QC compliance with ISO 17025.
• Interpret and report results accurately.
• Train and supervise junior staff.
• Manage inventory, equipment, and consumables.
• Provide technical guidance and liaise with clients.
• Support process improvement initiatives.
• Lead in maintaining accreditation standards.

Skills

MALDI-TOF

API systems

Bacterial culturing

PCR techniques

LIMS

Education

MSc or PhD in Microbiology

Tools

MALDI-TOF instrument

PCR equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading environmental testing and consulting firm committed to safeguarding public health and the environment. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Microbiologist to lead our microbiology laboratory operations in Rustenburg . This role is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of microbiological analyses performed for a diverse range of clients, including water utilities, industrial facilities, and food producers. You will be responsible for overseeing daily laboratory activities, managing quality assurance protocols, and interpreting complex microbiological data. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in microbial identification, enumeration, and detection techniques, along with strong leadership and analytical skills. You will play a key role in developing and implementing new testing methodologies and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Our client fosters a collaborative and technically driven work environment, providing state-of-the art facilities and ample opportunities for professional growth. Your expertise will be essential in maintaining our reputation for excellence and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of laboratory operations, including sample reception, processing, and analysis.
• Perform advanced microbiological testing, including culturing, microscopy, and molecular methods (e.g., PCR).
• Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological testing methodologies.
• Ensure strict adherence to quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures and regulatory guidelines (e.g., ISO 17025).
• Interpret and report microbiological test results accurately and efficiently.
• Train and supervise junior microbiologists and laboratory technicians.
• Manage laboratory inventory, equipment maintenance, and procurement of consumables.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and provide expert guidance on microbiological investigations.
• Liaise with clients to understand their testing needs and provide technical support.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory processes and services.

Requirements

• MSc or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Environmental Science, or a related biological science field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in a clinical, environmental, or industrial microbiology laboratory setting.
• Proven expertise in a broad range of microbiological techniques, including bacterial culturing, identification (e.g., API systems, MALDI-TOF), enumeration, and molecular methods.
• Strong understanding of water microbiology (e.g., E. coli, coliforms) and/or food microbiology.
• Experience with quality management systems and accreditation standards (e.g., ISO 17025).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to effectively manage and mentor a laboratory team.
• Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is a plus.
• Knowledge of relevant environmental regulations and industry best practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• We provide opportunities for ongoing professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance.
• The Rustenburg location offers a dynamic professional environment with access to excellent amenities.
• Join a team dedicated to scientific excellence and contribute to important environmental and public health initiatives.