Laboratory Supervisor: Red Cell Serology & Haematology

VACANCY: LABORATORY SUPERVISOR – RED CELL SEROLOGY & HAEMATOLOGY

The Western Cape Blood Service is a non-profit organisation whose mission is to collect, process and distribute blood and blood products of the highest standards in the Western Cape**.**

A vacancy exists for a Laboratory Supervisor – Red Cell Serology & Haematology

Paterson Grade C4

Purpose of the Job

We are seeking a qualified and experienced Supervisor: Red Cell Serology & Haematology to join our Donation Testing team. The successful candidate will supervise the technical and administrative functions of the Red Cell Serology and Haematology laboratory, ensuring the provision of a safe blood supply through compliance with SANAS, ISO, and quality management standards.

This role is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations, supervising staff, maintaining quality assurance processes, managing inventory and equipment, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and perform Red Cell Serology and Haematology testing activities.
• Review, verify and release routine and confirmatory laboratory results, including:
• • Blood grouping
    • Phenotyping
    • Antibody investigations
    • Titre testing
    • Syphilis testing
    • Donor haematology testing
    • Private pathology test requests
• Investigate and resolve discrepant, abnormal, or reactive results and escalate where necessary.
• Support validation and implementation of new laboratory tests, methods, and equipment.
• Coordinate equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting activities.
• Monitor reagent, quality control, and consumable inventories.
• Ensure compliance with SANAS, ISO, HPCSA, and Quality Management System (QMS) requirements.
• Monitor and verify internal and external quality control programmes.
• Support audit preparation and the management of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Guide staff in the implementation and maintenance of quality standards.
• Support workforce planning, roster management, and delegation of duties.
• Assist with recruitment, onboarding, and training of laboratory staff.
• Mentor and develop Medical Technologists, Medical Technicians, and Trainees.
• Promote continuous professional development and ensure HPCSA registration compliance.
• Maintain laboratory documentation and record management systems.
• Generate procurement requisitions and assist with budget monitoring.
• Compile operational statistics and support reporting and forecasting activities.
• Respond to stakeholder queries relating to laboratory results and services.
• Participate in the evaluation of emerging technologies, methodologies, and equipment.
• Contribute to scientific presentations, journal clubs, and professional knowledge sharing.
• Identify improvement opportunities and support the achievement of laboratory maturity and excellence standards.
• Harness molecular testing capabilities to enhance laboratory functionality, strengthen diagnostic precision, and improve blood safety outcomes.
• Providing after-hours support and participating in weekend duties when required.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• B-Tech, National Diploma, or BHSc in Biomedical Technology (Blood Transfusion)
• Current registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
• Minimum of 3 years' post-registration laboratory experience
• Supervisory experience within a pathology, transfusion medicine, or blood services laboratory environment will be advantageous
• Strong knowledge of Red Cell Serology and Haematology laboratory practices
• Understanding of SANAS, ISO, and Quality Management Systems
• Computer literacy
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities

Western Cape Blood Service is an equal opportunity employer. Kindly visit our website, www.wcbs.org.za and follow the links to apply.

As part of the recruitment and selection process, you may be required to complete a psychometric assessment.

Please note that no emails or hand delivered application will be accepted.

Should you not receive feedback within 4 weeks of submitting your application, please consider this as unsuccessful.

Closing date: 03 September 2026