Scientist: Organic (Hay Level 15/C4) Internal and External

Job Purpose

The purpose of this position is for the incumbent to assume Scientist responsibilities for Microbiological and Physical Laboratory W.R.T. development and validation of test methods using latest technologies as well as establishment of technical quality assurance practices aimed at ensuring accuracy and reliability of laboratory results and information.

Key Performance Areas

1. Financial recovery and Sustainability

• Apply scientifically accredited and acceptable process steps to interpret data and provide technical solutions that are of exceptional quality and cost-effective
• Perform analysis of ad-hoc samples for which validated methods do not exist by using acceptable laboratory practices to provide solutions to new challenges.
• Report back accurately and clearly on assigned tasks within project framework

2. Technology Development and Improvement

• Develop and validate methods and systems, in accordance with relevant standards to implement new applications to improve lab capabilities
• Assist with funding proposals to ensure that appropriate actions (such as purchase of new instrumentation and hiring of staff) are implemented.
• Collaborate with support functionaries to diagnose and find solutions to technical problems.
• Facilitate instrument maintenance activities (planned and unplanned) including putting measures to prevent breakdowns that can make the lab unavailable for prolonged periods

3. Marketing

• Develop factsheets to promote products and services for NLS.
• Participate in scientific panels, working groups and scientific conferences at a national level to promote LS capabilities to the market.
• Participate in at least two marketing events organized by the department in a year

4. Product development

• Produce technical reports on projects or activities carried out.
• Contribute to product development activities assigned to him/her.
• Undertake product concept development activities assigned to him/her.

5. OHS, QMS and Regulatory Compliance

• Attest to the performance of methods and instruments by using annually condensed reports on quality control data to ensure the improvement of quality control measures and analytical results.
• Support the laboratory quality system (e.g. ISO/IEC 17025) accreditation and maintenance in accordance with activities allocated in terms of NLS Quality Resource Plan.
• Participate in BBS activities.
• Develop and revise procedures and protocols in line with national and international RC guidelines.
• Lead investigations of technical non-conformances for applicable management systems to the lab.

6. Human Capital Development

• Provide training on the theory and practical/experiments of techniques and methods in the areas of operation to ensure continued competence of technical personnel.
• Provide training and practical assistance to lab technicians/analysts in basic lab practices, routine analysis and newly developed methods.
• Prepare and supervise procedures for lab analysis, data handling and reduction, and the use of validated analytical methods.
• Acquire and retain professional certification up-to-date and valid on an annual basis

Job Requirements:

Key Knowledge & Skills:

• The In-depth understanding and knowledge of GC, GC-MS, FTIR, IC, LC-MS, & HPLC equipment used in the organic laboratories.
• Ability to perform trouble shooting on the above lab equipment and instrumentation.
• Understanding / insight on project management skills.
• Knowledge and understanding of international best practices such as GLP, GMP, ISO, ASTM, CTBTO, WHO, IAEA, etc.
• The ability to perform the Chromatographic test analysis.
• The ability to perform directed scientific methods/procedure development in the field of interest with minimal guidance
• The ability to operate selected instruments/ equipment/ apparatus and to interpret the results
• The ability to integrate and interpret analytical data from different techniques
• The ability to write experimental reports and to make oral presentations with colleagues, peers, etc.
• Computer literate and the ability to understand, learn and apply new software as required.

Competencies (Job Specific and Behavioral):

• You will need to pass a pre-employment and a routine annual medical examination to be eligible to perform duties associated with this position.
• You will have to work as a registered radiation and chemical worker by passing all the in-house training to be given to you in this regard.
• Work is almost exclusively in laboratories where you will have to wear protective clothing.
• Some degree of lifting and heavy work is common with the daily moving of files, instrument and supplies.
• Behavioural Competencies
• Analytical Thinking and Attention to detail
• Problem Solving
• Motivation to Learn
• Safety oriented
• Customer service oriented
• Effective communication
• Judgement and decision making
• Creativity and Innovation

Minimum Qualifications:

• BSc Honours Degree in Chemistry - or Physics
• MSc will be an added advantage

Minimum Experience:

• 5-7 years of experience working with laboratory instruments such as GC, GC-MS, LC-MS, etc. in an Organic lab.
• 5-7 years practical experience of Microsoft Excel, MS Word, Power Point, Share Point, and LIMS.
• Certificate in SANAS ISO/IEC 17025 Systems and ISO 9001.
• Be eligible to be registered as Radiation & Chemical Worker
• Professional Certification in Natural Sciences or legible for certification (i.e. SACNASP)

Closing date: 28 August 2026

CONTACT PERSON

Ms. Ofhani Tshila

Tel: 012 305 6937

Please apply online https://necsa.mcidirecthire.com/External/CurrentOpportunities before the closing date.

Important: Necsa Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of the Employment Equity Act. In filling this position, preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups, in line with the organisation’s Employment Equity objectives.

By applying for this position, applicants acknowledge and consent to Necsa Group conducting the necessary pre-employment checks. These may include verification of educational qualifications, employment history, and, where relevant to the position, criminal and credit checks through registered credit bureaus and/or the South African Police Service, particularly for roles involving trust, honesty, or the handling of cash and finances. Necsa Group reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time prior to the closing date. Furthermore, the organisation reserves the right not to make an appointment should a suitable candidate not be identified.

GENERAL:

Should you not hear from us within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.