Team Leader QC Lab

AECI Limited; Brakpan; On-site; ZAR 350 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading plant health company in Brakpan is seeking a qualified Team Leader for the Quality Control Laboratory. The role involves managing laboratory personnel, analytical testing of raw materials and finished products, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, several years of laboratory experience including hands-on with HPLC and GC systems, and proven supervisory skills. This position offers a chance to contribute to a quality-driven environment focused on operational excellence and safety.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 with a BSc Chemistry or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry.
• 4–5 years’ experience in an analytical laboratory and production environment.
• Minimum 2 years’ hands-on experience with HPLC, GC, AA, GC-MS, FTIR and UV-Vis systems.
• Proven experience in method development, validation and troubleshooting.
• Previous supervisory experience is essential.
• Sound knowledge of SHEQ Management Systems and laboratory best practices.
• Computer literacy with working knowledge of Syspro.
• Strong analytical, communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all raw materials and finished products are tested and released in accordance with approved specifications.
• Develop, validate and maintain analytical methods using appropriate instrumentation.
• Manage out-of-specification investigations, corrective actions and product rework processes.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations and planning of analyses.
• Compile, review and maintain laboratory SOPs and controlled documentation.
• Liaise with contract manufacturing customers and service providers.
• Participate in audits and support SHEQ Management System compliance.
• Manage laboratory waste, housekeeping, equipment calibration and maintenance.
• Supervise, train and develop laboratory staff.

Skills

HPLC

GC

AA

GC-MS

FTIR

UV-Vis

Analytical skills

Communication

Organisational skills

Education

BSc Chemistry or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

MS Office

Syspro

Job description

Overview

AECI Plant Health is seeking a suitably qualified Team Leader – Quality Control Laboratory to ensure the effective and compliant operation of the QC Laboratory. The role is responsible for managing laboratory personnel, overseeing analytical testing of raw materials and finished products, supporting contract manufacturing requirements, and maintaining high standards of quality, safety and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure all raw materials and finished products are tested and released in accordance with approved specifications.
• Develop, validate and maintain analytical methods using HPLC, GC, AA, GC-MS, FTIR and UV-Vis instrumentation.
• Manage out-of-specification investigations, corrective actions and product rework processes.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, planning of analyses and support to Production.
• Compile, review and maintain laboratory SOPs, specifications and controlled documentation.
• Liaise with contract manufacturing customers and service providers.
• Participate in internal and external audits and support SHEQ Management System compliance.
• Manage laboratory waste, housekeeping, equipment calibration and maintenance.
• Supervise, train and develop laboratory staff to ensure effective performance and compliance.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 with a BSc Chemistry or National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry.
• 4–5 years’ experience in an analytical laboratory and production environment.
• Minimum 2 years’ hands-on experience with HPLC, GC, AA, GC-MS, FTIR and UV-Vis systems.
• Proven experience in method development, validation and troubleshooting.
• Previous supervisory experience is essential.
• Sound knowledge of SHEQ Management Systems and laboratory best practices.
• Computer literacy (MS Office) with working knowledge of Syspro.
• Strong analytical, communication and organisational skills.

Competencies

• Strong leadership and attention to detail
• Safety-focused and quality-driven
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Ability to work independently and under pressure

AECI Plant Health offers an opportunity to contribute to a quality-driven manufacturing environment committed to operational excellence, safety and continuous improvement.