Trainee Laboratory Manager

Intellistaff Outsourced Services; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent lubricant producer near Vereeniging is seeking a skilled Laboratory Technician to manage QC laboratory staff and oversee testing processes. The position will involve training for eventual progression to Laboratory Manager while providing technical support and maintaining lab equipment and documentation.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years in a petroleum/lubricants lab environment with proven testing experience.
• Ability to manage teams and work independently.
• Familiarity with lubricant/petroleum product testing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and oversee testing for production, R&D, and client samples.
• Oversee staff performance and ensure safety, quality, and compliance.
• Lead improvements in lab processes, SOPs, and documentation systems.

Skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

B.SC or BTech in Chemistry

Tools

Microsoft Office

Sage Evolution BOM

Bartender Label Designer

Job description

Our client, an independent lubricant producer and waste oil re-refinery near Vereeniging, is seeking a skilled professional to join their fast-moving production plant.

This role is for a Laboratory Technician who will be trained and developed to eventually take on the responsibilities of Laboratory Manager. The position involves managing QC laboratory staff, equipment, and consumables; maintaining laboratory processes and documentation; assisting the blending plant manager as needed; supporting R&D efforts; and providing technical support to other departments and clients through documents such as SDS, TDS, and COAs.
Job Description:

• Conduct and oversee testing for production, R&D, and client samples.
• Oversee staff performance and ensure safety, quality, and compliance.
• Maintain and calibrate lab equipment; manage consumables and flammable materials.
• Lead improvements in lab processes, SOPs, and documentation systems.
• Handle SDS, TDS, and COA creation and updates for produced and supplied products.
• Manage retention samples, labeling systems, and BOM database updates.
• Deliver reports and technical support to internal departments and clients.

Desired Experience & Qualification:

• B.SC or BTech in Chemistry

Experience:

• 3–5 years in a petroleum/lubricants lab environment with proven testing experience

Required Skills:

• Strong interpersonal, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Microsoft Office and Windows proficiency
• Ability to manage teams and work independently
• Ability to work under pressure

Specialised knowledge:

• Lubricant/petroleum product testing
• Familiarity with tribology, Sage Evolution BOM, Bartender Label Designer, and customer support.

Direct Reports:

• Two Laboratory Technicians

Desired Skills:

• lab
• lubricant
• manager
• oil