ICP Technicians [ICP-OES or ICP-MS instruments] Gauteng, JHB - Northern Suburbs
R 600000 Annually Cost To Company (Sal up to R600k, with 13th and 14th check, plus provident fund after probation, Negotiable)
We are seeking detail-oriented and technically skilled ICP Technicians to operate, maintain, and optimize ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation - JohannesburgThe successful candidate will be responsible for conducting elemental analysis, ensuring data accuracy, maintaining laboratory standards, and supporting quality control and research activities.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with ICP instrumentation, sample preparation techniques, troubleshooting analytical equipment, and working within an ISO-accredited laboratory environment.Key ResponsibilitiesInstrument Operation & Analysis
- Operate and monitor ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instruments for routine and non-routine elemental analysis.
- Prepare, analyse, and interpret samples according to approved laboratory methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Conduct calibration, standardization, and performance verification of analytical instruments.
- Review analytical data and identify anomalies or out-of-specification results.
- Generate accurate reports and communicate findings to relevant stakeholders.
Instrument Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Perform routine preventative maintenance on ICP equipment.
- Diagnose and resolve instrument-related issues to minimize downtime.
- Replace consumables and maintain instrument performance.
- Coordinate with instrument vendors and service providers when required.
- Maintain service logs and equipment maintenance records.
Sample Preparation
- Prepare samples using digestion, dilution, filtration, and extraction techniques.
- Ensure proper sample handling, storage, and chain-of-custody procedures.
- Maintain sample integrity throughout the analytical process.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Adhere to ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, and laboratory quality management systems where applicable.
- Conduct quality control checks, including blanks, duplicates, spikes, and certified reference materials.
- Participate in internal and external proficiency testing programmes.
- Ensure compliance with laboratory health, safety, and environmental regulations.
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and data management systems.
- Prepare technical reports and analytical summaries.
- Assist with method validation, verification, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure all documentation meets regulatory and audit requirements.
Minimum RequirementsQualifications
- National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Chemistry
- Chemical Technology
- Environmental Science
- Applied Science
- Related Scientific Discipline
Experience
- Minimum 2–5 years' experience operating ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation.
- Experience in a commercial, mining, environmental, pharmaceutical, metallurgical, or research laboratory.
- Familiarity with sample digestion techniques and elemental analysis methodologies.
- Experience working within an ISO-accredited laboratory environment preferred.
Technical Competencies
- Strong knowledge of ICP-OES and ICP-MS analytical principles.
- Understanding of trace and ultra-trace elemental analysis.
- Experience with method development and validation.
- Knowledge of laboratory quality systems and quality control procedures.
- Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
- Competence in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Ability to interpret analytical data and troubleshoot technical issues.
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Analytical and critical-thinking ability.
- Effective time management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Strong communication and report-writing skills.
- Commitment to laboratory safety and quality standards.
Preferred Experience
- Experience in mining, environmental testing, water analysis, pharmaceuticals, or metallurgical laboratories.
- Exposure to ISO 17025 accredited laboratories.
- Knowledge of acid digestion techniques and clean laboratory practices.
- Experience with Agilent, PerkinElmer, Thermo Fisher, Shimadzu, or Spectro ICP platforms.
RemunerationMarket-related salary dependent on qualifications, experience, and technical expertise.
Reporting To:Laboratory Manager / Senior Analytical Chemist / Technical Manager
Working Conditions:
- Laboratory-based role.
- May require occasional overtime to meet testing deadlines.
- Compliance with laboratory PPE and safety requirements is mandatory
Sal up to R600k, with 13th and 14th check, plus provident fund after probation
Work Location: In person
