Job Purpose
The purpose of this position is for the incumbent to take on Scientist responsibilities within the Non-Destructive Testing Lab Section, focusing on the development and validation of test methods using cutting-edge technologies. Additionally, the role involves establishing
technical quality assurance practices and providing high-quality, cost-effective support services to all NLS laboratories. This ensures the smooth operation of both equipment and facilities, with the ultimate goal of maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results and information.
Key Performance Areas
Job Requirements
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
- Performanalysisofad-hocsamplesforwhichvalidatedmethodsdonotexistsbyusingacceptable 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.
3. Marketing
- Develop factsheets to promote products and services for NLS
- Participates on the scientific panel, working groups and scientific conferences at a national level in order to promote NLS capabilities to the market
4. Product development
- Produce technical reports on projects or activities carried out.
- Contribute to product 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/IEC17025) 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 guideline including facilitation of PTS activities
- Lead all investigations of minor NC 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 new knowledge (CBTO) and retain professional certification up-to-date and valid on an annual basis
Key Knowledge & Skills:
- In-depth understanding and knowledge of equipment used in the laboratories allocated to the incumbent (e.g. Radio-chemical & Gamma Spectrometer types of 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 physical/chemical/biological/radiological test experimentally
- 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
Technical and 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 or Equivalent
- MSc will be an added advantage
Minimum Experience
- 3-5 or more years’ experience in lab operations with
- 3-4 years practical experience of Microsoft Excel, MS Word, Power Point, SharePoint, and LIMS.
- Certificate in SANAS ISO/IEC 17025 Systems and ISO 9001.
- Be legible to be registered as Radiation & Chemical Worker
- Professional Certification in Natural Sciences or legible for certification
Closing date: 03 July 2026
CONTACT PERSON
Ms. Brenda Berries
Tel: 012 305 3099
Building: H Building
Room: 318
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
