Team Leader - Sample Preparation

Alfred H Knight Group; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A global minerals analysis firm in Rustenburg is seeking a Team Leader for Sample Preparation. Responsible for supervising sample prep, ensuring client instructions are met, and training staff. Ideal candidates will have strong analytical and leadership skills, with at least 3 years' experience in a commercial minerals laboratory. The role offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits

Salary and benefits package

Diversity and inclusion commitment

Responsibilities

• Supervise the sample preparation while ensuring standards are followed.
• Train and develop the Sample Preparers.
• Coordinate with layout personnel and ensure all client instructions are met.
• Maintain shift production levels to meet sample turnaround time.
• Organize employee scheduling and monitor performance.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Mechanical skills

Time management

Critical thinking

Communication skills

Ability to prioritize

Education

Grade 12 (with Maths and Science)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Overview

WHAT IS ON OFFER

Alfred H Knight has an exciting opportunity for a Team Leader Sample Preparation to join the team in Rustenburg. The position is responsible for the supervision of the sample preparation while on shift the Team Leader will ensure that the department runs smoothly and that all standards are followed by the staff on shift and to ensure client instructions are followed correctly. The Team Leader will also be involved in the training and development of the Sample Preparers.

About Us

Alfred H Knight is a totally independent family owned business spanning five generations. A global network of strategically placed offices and laboratories enable global trade by providing independent inspection analysis and consultancy services to the metals and minerals solid fuels and agriculture industries.

We have honed and carefully crafted our reputation. Delivering knowledge and professionalism in all aspects of weighing sampling and analysis. We thrive by continuing to reinvest in our facilities technology and people. Click here to find out more about AHK.

Do You Have What It Takes

To be successful at Alfred H Knight the incumbent will need to display the following :

Required Knowledge and Work Experience

Responsibilities

• Schedule work flow through the department so that client deadlines are met.
• Help manage the process of sample preparation work flow as the samples arrive in the sample preparation facility.
• Maintain shift production levels and ensure sample preparation work meets required turnaround time.
• Determine when client sample processing instructions are missing, incomplete or ambiguous, and coordinate with layout personnel and the work order entry group.
• Maintain close liaison with Site foreman and Supervisors and sample prep staff to ensure the smooth delivery of our services to clients.
• Identify and resolve internal and external problems when they arise.
• Responsible for training of sample preparation staff and monitoring performance.
• Organize employee scheduling and shift work in consultation with the Site Foreman; assist with employee performance evaluations, discipline and other issues as they arise in consultation with the Site foreman and Inspectors.
• Use correct methods in accordance with established procedures and schedules while ensuring quality.
• Observe established safety regulations and comply with all AHK health and safety policies and procedures.
• Monitor and maintain work area; ensure spills are cleaned immediately; disposal is handled according to sample prep procedures including any special requirements for handling international soils.
• Establish maintenance regimes both routine and non-routine to ensure all equipment is in a safe and efficient operating state and organize appropriate service providers when necessary.
• Set ordering and maintain appropriate inventories of supplies and parts to ensure production goals are met.
• Keep all records and notebooks in good order including work orders and equipment maintenance logs.
• May be assigned and coordinate special or ad hoc projects as needed.

Required Competencies

• Ability to multi task and prioritize work flow
• Strong analytical and mechanical skills
• A willingness to learn new analytical tests, equipment and procedures
• Critical thinking and ability to troubleshoot problems in a timely manner
• Must be able to read, understand and follow work instructions in a safe, accurate and timely manner and answer related questions from direct reports.
• Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work well with others and independently with little direct supervision.
• Time management skills and a strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Able to work extended hours from time to time.

Required Qualifications

• Grade 12 (with Maths and Science)

Physical Attributes

• Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time;
• Ability to work in a hot and dusty environment;
• Manual skill to perform repetitive tasks;
• Ability to lift up to 30kgs (occasionally lifting may exceed 30kg and assistance is mandatory from either another employee or the lift assist equipment).

Required Work Experience

• Minimum 3 years work experience in a commercial minerals laboratory or minerals sample preparation required;
• Microsoft Excel and Word experience
• Proven leadership abilities and experience leading teams greater than 5 people
• Experience performing all related sample prep procedures with a theoretical understanding of the methodology.

Benefits

We are offering an excellent opportunity with a salary and benefits package to match

Alfred H Knight is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and hence welcomes applications from all sections of the community in line with our Employment Equity Plan

Closing date

01 September 2025

Required Experience :

Manager

Key Skills

Hyperion, Acquisition, Asset, ABAP, Basic, ActiveX

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1