Assurecloud Laboratory Assistant, Cape Town

Responsibilities

Sample, Media & Reagent Preparation

• Prepare samples, media, and reagents for routine laboratory testing in accordance with approved procedures.
• Perform basic sample preparation activities independently.
• Handle the storage of samples, media, and reagents following testing and preparation activities.
• Dispose of samples and laboratory materials according to approved procedures.
• Ensure preparation activities support departmental turnaround time requirements.

Laboratory Cleaning & Housekeeping

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised laboratory environment.
• Clean laboratory equipment, glassware, plasticware, and work areas.
• Follow good housekeeping practices at all times.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory standards and readiness for audits and inspections.

Quality & Compliance

• Perform all duties in accordance with ISO 17025 quality requirements.
• Ensure compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies and procedures.
• Assist in the implementation of quality and turnaround time corrective actions.
• Identify and report quality, safety, and operational concerns to the Laboratory Manager.
• Support the maintenance of laboratory accreditation and quality systems.

Turnaround Time Management

• Support the laboratory in achieving departmental turnaround time targets.
• Ensure sample and media preparation activities are completed within required timeframes.
• Provide early warning to management regarding any potential delays.

Instrument & Equipment Maintenance

• Assist with the upkeep and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Clean and disinfect laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Report equipment issues, faults, or maintenance requirements to the Laboratory Manager.
• Ensure maintenance schedules and cleaning procedures are followed.

Stock Control & Cost Management

• Maintain adequate stock levels of laboratory consumables, media, and reagents.
• Monitor inventory levels and report shortages timeously.
• Support cost-control initiatives through responsible use of laboratory resources.
• Assist in reducing waste and improving laboratory efficiency.

Training & Development

• Participate in all required training and competency assessments.
• Develop technical competency in laboratory preparation activities and assigned test methods.
• Maintain competency standards relevant to the role.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory.

Client & Team Support

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with internal stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with laboratory team members to meet operational objectives.
• Provide support to colleagues and assist with departmental activities when required.

Operational Support

• Ensure compliance with AssureCloud policies, procedures, systems, and reporting requirements.
• Utilise company IT systems effectively and accurately.
• Support the achievement of laboratory operational goals and objectives.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties assigned by management.

SHEQ Responsibilities

• Maintain good housekeeping practices within the laboratory.
• Read and comply with all relevant procedures and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
• Correctly dispose of chemicals, solvents, samples, and laboratory waste.
• Wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Comply with all SHEQ procedures, policies, and signage requirements.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric with Mathematics and Physical Science ).

Experience

• 1-2 years' relevant laboratory experience.
• Previous experience within a testing laboratory environment will be advantageous.
• Experience in sample preparation, media preparation, manufacturing, warehouse, food production, or similar operational environments will be advantageous.

Skills & Knowledge

• Good communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to plan, organise, and prioritise workload effectively.
• Basic mathematical skills for weighing, measuring, and simple calculations.
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Technical knowledge relevant to laboratory operations.
• Ability to follow written procedures and instructions accurately.
• Strong teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• Good time management skills.

Other

• Physically fit and able to perform lifting, carrying, standing, and manual handling activities.
• Able to move and replace gas cylinders using approved handling procedures.
• Willing to work overtime and weekends when required by operational needs.
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high standards of work.

High degree of professional ethics and values aligned with:

• Integrity
• Courage
• Care
• Passion
• Innovation
• Accountability
• Preference will be given to Employment Equity (EE) candidates