Team Leader : Microbiology

Greenhill Laboratories; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 450 000 - 550 000; Full time

Job summary

A nationally accredited testing laboratory in KwaZulu-Natal seeks a qualified Team Leader in Microbiology to oversee testing and lead a skilled team. Candidates must have a BSc in Microbiology, demonstrate leadership skills, and possess 2+ years of laboratory experience. The role combines technical oversight with team coordination in a compliant environment, offering pathways for leadership development.

Qualifications

• 2+ years' laboratory experience, including internal auditing exposure.
• English fluency and strong written communication.

Responsibilities

• Perform accredited testing on food and environmental samples.
• Oversee daily team operations and mentor junior staff.
• Accept responsibility for results released under accreditation.

Skills

Attention to detail

Aseptic technique

Strong leadership

Time management

Decision-making skills

Education

BSc in Microbiology or equivalent

Job description

Position Title : Team Leader : MicrobiologyLocation : Hilton, KwaZulu-NatalDepartment : MicrobiologyReporting To : Laboratory ManagerGreenHill Laboratories is a nationally accredited testing and consulting laboratory committed to technical excellence, strategic resilience, and ethical governance.

We are seeking a qualified microbiologist with proven leadership capability and a deep respect for compliance to lead our Microbiology team.

This role combines hands-on technical work with team coordination and SANAS-aligned result authorisation, offering a pathway to Technical Signatory designation for candidates who demonstrate operational maturity and regulatory fluency.

Core Responsibilities

• Microbiological Testing & Oversight
  • Perform accredited testing on food and environmental samples, including hygiene indicators and pathogens
  • Identify microbial isolates using staining, biochemical, and serological methods
  • Record, interpret, and report results with precision, traceability, and audit-readiness
  • Assist in method validation, verification, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Maintain LMS compliance and uphold ISO, and statutory requirements
• Team Leadership & Operational Coordination
  • Oversee daily team operations, delegate tasks, and ensure timely execution
  • Mentor junior staff and foster a culture of accountability, technical excellence, and continuous learning
  • Monitor performance, identify training needs, and coordinate proficiency testing
  • Liaise across departments to balance workloads and resolve interdepartmental issues
  • Maintain equipment verification, calibration, and service schedules
  • Implement management directives and contribute to strategic planning
• Technical Signatory Responsibilities (Post-Confirmation)
  • Accept full responsibility for results released under accreditation
  • Verify and authorise Certificates of Analysis and Test Reports
  • Ensure all required checks, controls, and documentation are complete prior to result release
  • Maintain in-depth knowledge of SANAS requirements, including ISO, ILAC / IAF / AFRAC documents, and method-specific objectives
  • Represent GreenHill during SANAS and other regulatory assessments

Minimum Qualifications

BSc in Microbiology or equivalent ; 2+ years' laboratory experience, including internal auditing exposure; English fluency and strong written communication.

Eligibility for Technical Signatory confirmation

Key Skills & Attributes relevant to the role include: attention to detail, aseptic technique, current Good Laboratory Practice; strong leadership, time management, decision-making skills; proficiency in numeracy, IT systems, and LMS navigation; friendly, respectful, self-critical, confident in high-stakes environments; ability to lift up to 10 kg and manage own workload independently.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Attention to detail, aseptic technique, and current Good Laboratory Practice
• Strong leadership, time management, and decision-making skills
• Proficiency in numeracy, IT systems, and LMS navigation
• Friendly, respectful, self-critical, and confident in high-stakes environments
• Ability to lift up to 10 kg and manage own workload independently

Performance Indicators

• Proficiency Testing accuracy and audit readiness
• Operational efficiency and team
• Result traceability and customer satisfaction
• Internal audit findings and SANAS observations

Why GreenHill?

We offer a growth-oriented, compliance-driven environment where technical excellence meets strategic ambition. You'll lead a team that values mentorship, governance maturity, and authentic institutional representation — with clear pathways for accreditation-based responsibility and leadership development.

To apply, submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your microbiological experience and leadership aspirations to.