13 Laboratory Support jobs in South Africa

• Installs, calibrates, maintains, inspects and services/repairs instrumentation used in agricultural production measurement in the lab, field and glasshouses.


• Conduct field/lab/glasshouse tests and experiments to evaluate crop performance, soil conditions, and equipment efficiency.


• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans.


• Supervises allocated HR resources.


• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls.


• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision. 


• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems. 


• Provides input into the optimization of new technologies. 


• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis. 


• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results. 


• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles). 


• Adheres to quality standards. 


• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures.


• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days).


• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact.


• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

• National Diploma in Agriculture, Bioresources Engineering, Instrumentation or a closely related field.


• BTech or BSc Degree will be an added advantage.


• Experience in instrumentation installation, operation, calibration, use and maintenance for equipment used in agricultural data collection e.g. plant growth parameters, irrigation and soil. 


• Background in crop production and management will be an added advantage.


• Ability to work under pressure while ensuring timely and high-quality analysis. 


• Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems. 


• Good communication skills (verbal and written). 


• A valid driver’s license and able to drive long distance.


• Registration with a relevant scientific or professional body will be an added advantage. 

Enquiries: MS YVONNE HADZHI AND MS ROELENE MARX, Tel: (012) 

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 31 OCTOBER 2025 

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. 

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint

Job Title: Laboratory Technician & Personal Assistant

Location: University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa

Department: School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences

Reports To: Professor Veron Ramsuran

Position Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Laboratory Technician & Personal Assistant to Prof. Veron Ramsuran. This is a dual role that combines laboratory support with administrative and personal assistance. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing laboratory procedures while also assisting with scheduling, communication, and organizational tasks.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Technician Duties:

• Receive, log, and track incoming biological samples.
• Prepare samples for analysis, including nucleic acid extraction.
• Perform molecular biology techniques, including PCR (conventional and/or real-time).
• Assist in maintaining accurate laboratory records, databases, and chain of custody logs.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory inventory, reagents, and consumables.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure compliance with biosafety guidelines.
• Assist with troubleshooting laboratory equipment and technical protocols.
• Support research projects under the guidance of Prof. Ramsuran and other senior staff.

Personal Assistant Duties:

• Manage and coordinate Prof. Ramsuran's calendar, meetings, and appointments.
• Draft, proofread, and manage correspondence (emails, memos, documents, reports).
• Assist with travel arrangements, conference bookings, and related logistics.
• Organize and maintain files, records, and confidential documents.
• Act as the first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide general administrative support to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
• Assist in project coordination, deadline tracking, and meeting follow-ups.

Communication & Liaison:

• Act as the primary point of contact between Professor Ramsuran and internal/external stakeholders including students, faculty, collaborators, funders, and administrative staff.
• Screen and prioritize emails, calls, and requests, responding on behalf of the Professor when appropriate.
• Coordinate communication with local and international research collaborators.

Research & Academic Support:

• Assist with the preparation and submission of research proposals, ethical approvals, and academic manuscripts.
• Manage reference materials and assist with literature reviews or presentation materials.
• Track research project timelines, deliverables, and reporting obligations.

Travel & Event Coordination:

• Organize national and international travel including visa arrangements, accommodation, transport, and itineraries.
• Coordinate logistics for academic conferences, workshops, meetings, and public lectures.

Financial & Procurement Administration:

• Support with processing reimbursements, travel claims, and budget tracking related to research projects.
• Assist in procurement processes for laboratory or office supplies, ensuring compliance with UKZN procurement policies.

Student & Team Support:

• Serve as a liaison for postgraduate students and research staff reporting to Professor Ramsuran.
• Coordinate schedules, progress meetings, and documentation related to student supervision.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, or related field.
• Prior laboratory experience with sample handling, extraction, and PCR techniques is essential.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Experience in a research or academic laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality control and biosafety standards.
• Previous experience in an administrative or personal assistant role.
• Strong time management with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work closely with a leading academic and research professional.
• Exposure to cutting-edge research in molecular biology.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for this dual role.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From R10 000,00 per month

Education:

• Diploma (Required)

Work Location: In person

We're looking for a passionate and detail-oriented individual to join our Food Technology Lab. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on, experimental environment and is eager to contribute to innovative food product development, testing, and quality assurance.

Job Description

As a Food Technologist / Lab Technician, you will be responsible for supporting the development, testing, and refinement of food products and processes. Your work will directly impact product safety, quality, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory tests on food samples for quality, safety, and nutritional content
• Assist in the formulation and development of new food products
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and formulations
• Operate and calibrate lab equipment (e.g., pH meters, moisture analyzers, spectrophotometers)
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and internal standards
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams
• Prepare samples for sensory evaluation and shelf-life testing
• Monitor and document environmental conditions in the lab
• Assist in sourcing and testing new ingredients or packaging materials

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Diploma or Degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or related field
• 1–3 years of experience in a food lab or production environment (entry-level applicants with strong academic background will be considered)

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and safety standards
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP protocols
• Excellent attention to detail and record-keeping
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic lab software

Bonus Skills (Not Required):

• Experience with sensory analysis panels
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP implementation
• Knowledge of plant-based or alternative protein formulations
• Familiarity with regulatory submissions or product labeling

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person

Purpose:

Assure all Quality activities are performed according to BOS-, TS 16 949-, ISO 9000 standards and specific customer requirements. Develop and maintains test instructions.

Responsibilities:

Plan and execute all necessary measurements in the lab

Experience in writing measuring programmes.

Conduct various testing functions within the laboratory environment according to international standards.

Manage gauge and test equipment calibration system

Perform calibration

Perform R&R studies and performs wear trend analyses

Assure compliance to ISO / IEC 17025 standard

Manage Product Audits within plant

Ensure that continuous improvement is made in all Production MEQ Quality Deliverables (e.g.:

RPPM, CPPM, IPPM, SPPM, Quality Costs, Customer Product Audits and Warranty / JD Power)

Ensure that customer and internally identified quality issues are resolved using the company problem solving methods (8D Report, Problem Solving Document “PSD”, PCAD, Kepner-Tregoe, etc.)

Prepare necessary corrective / preventive actions, follow up, verify and release of actions.

Execute any reasonable request from Quality Manager.

Requirements:

A Bachelor´s degree is required (or equivalent experience)

Specific education and training in Quality disciplines including as a minimum QS9000,

Continuous Improvement, Total Quality Management, PPAP, FMEA, Control plans, DOE and SPC are also required

Minimum 5 years in automotive industry, minimum 3 years in quality area.

Join Link Up Contact Solutions as a Laboratory Assistant and become an integral part of our dynamic team dedicated to providing exceptional contact solutions. In this role, you will support our laboratory operations by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting various tests, and assisting in research and development activities. You will work closely with our skilled professionals to ensure accuracy and efficiency in all laboratory processes. We are looking for a detail-oriented individual with a strong passion for science and technology, who is eager to contribute to innovative projects and enhance their skills in a collaborative environment. Your ability to follow protocols, maintain precise records, and ensure compliance with safety regulations will be key to your success. If you are ready to take the next step in your career with a forward-thinking company, we invite you to apply and help us continue delivering innovative solutions to our clients.

Tasks

• Assist in the preparation of laboratory samples and specimens for analysis.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory environment and equipment.

• Record and manage data accurately, ensuring proper documentation of experiments and test results.

• Conduct routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments to ensure precision and accuracy.

• Support senior laboratory staff in research projects by providing logistical and technical assistance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.

• Proven experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably within the healthcare or pharmaceutical industries.

• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.

• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and software for data analysis.

• Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and orderly work environment.

Join Link Up Contact Solutions as a Laboratory Assistant and be part of a dynamic team, driving innovation and excellence in a collaborative environment. Apply today to grow your career

Join Link Up Contact Solutions as a Laboratory Assistant and become an integral part of our dynamic team dedicated to providing exceptional contact solutions. In this role, you will support our laboratory operations by preparing and maintaining laboratory equipment, conducting various tests, and assisting in research and development activities. You will work closely with our skilled professionals to ensure accuracy and efficiency in all laboratory processes. We are looking for a detail-oriented individual with a strong passion for science and technology, who is eager to contribute to innovative projects and enhance their skills in a collaborative environment. Your ability to follow protocols, maintain precise records, and ensure compliance with safety regulations will be key to your success. If you are ready to take the next step in your career with a forward-thinking company, we invite you to apply and help us continue delivering innovative solutions to our clients.

• Assist in the preparation of laboratory samples and specimens for analysis.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory environment and equipment.
• Record and manage data accurately, ensuring proper documentation of experiments and test results.
• Conduct routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments to ensure precision and accuracy.
• Support senior laboratory staff in research projects by providing logistical and technical assistance.

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• Proven experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably within the healthcare or pharmaceutical industries.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and software for data analysis.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and orderly work environment.

Join Link Up Contact Solutions as a Laboratory Assistant and be part of a dynamic team, driving innovation and excellence in a collaborative environment. Apply today to grow your career

JOB PURPOSE:

To provide quality medical laboratory services by performing routine analytical procedures, maintaining equipment, controlling quality assurance within the sphere of responsibility, Administers Pre-analytical and Post-analytical functions, in accordance with service goals. Effective communication including feedback with all role players, internally and externally. Handling, managing and completion of tasks within the specific targeted times.

QUALIFICATION/KNOWLEDGE:

Relevant Science Degree or Diploma

HPCSA Registration will be an advantage

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Meet Tests Turn Around Times Within Targeted Timeframes and Standards

Receive, distribute and process samples within TATs and according to standard operating procedures.

Executing systems to meet 95% of TAT performance.

1. Actively Manages Stock Levels Within Agreed Parameters and Safety Stock Levels

Ensures that all instrumentation has adequate stock levels for optimal performance.

Ensures stock control is monitored and maintained on a continuous basis.

1. Accurate Processing of Patient Samples

Performs the processing of routine and urgent samples according to standard operating procedures, thereby ensuring consistent workflow and meeting expectations.

Accounting for inconsistencies that may arise if outstanding checks are not reported and actioned.

Actively engage with external clients/suppliers with analyzer breakdowns, and failures.

1. Quality Assurance by Implementing Good Lab Practices Referencing SANAS/ISO 15189 Standards

Ensure the correct application for quality assurance processes by ensuring the completion of all tasks.

Run internal and external Quality control samples as per relevant standard operating procedures.

Ensures that equipment is maintained and calibrated in line with defined processes and procedures.

1. Health, Safety and Environment

Ensures that all staff are compliant to all Health and Safety rules and regulations to prevent incidents and minimize exposure to risks to personnel and the environment. Willing and able to represent as an officer when required. Ensure proper housekeeping and bench decontamination.

1. Pre and Post Analytical

Administers sorting and distribution of samples according to set standard operating procedures to ensure the correct and prioritized channeling of specimens to various laboratories/sites.

Processes sample registration (logging) and queries according to set standard operating procedures.

Ensures dispatching of specimens for processing in accordance with prescribed standard operating procedures and monitors progress and filing of reports, including handling queries and report delivery, in line with prescribed turnaround time.

Investigates bottleneck in pre-analytical laboratory processes and ensure timely resolution of challenges.

Receives cash from patients and ensures banking of monies in accordance with relevant standard operating procedures.

Prepares and scans patient forms onto the scanning system and resolves the scanning incompletes according to set standard operating procedures.

Maintain Client communication and documentation to record feedback to the department heads including reviews and client feedback.

Following the process for the Client feedback loop, identifying relevant issues, complaints, comments, improvements, and opportunities.

Translate Client queries in the company's system and engage across departments to resolve queries within tight deadlines.

Actively participate in departmental meetings, training interventions and periodic evaluations.

JOB PURPOSE:

To provide quality medical laboratory services by performing routine analytical procedures, maintaining equipment, controlling quality assurance within the sphere of responsibility, Administers Pre-analytical and Post-analytical functions, in accordance with service goals. Effective communication including feedback with all role players, internally and externally. Handling, managing and completion of tasks within the specific targeted times.

QUALIFICATION/KNOWLEDGE:

Relevant Science Degree or Diploma

HPCSA Registration will be an advantage

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Meet Tests Turn Around Times Within Targeted Timeframes and Standards

Receive, distribute and process samples within TATs and according to standard operating procedures.

Executing systems to meet 95% of TAT performance.

1. Actively Manages Stock Levels Within Agreed Parameters and Safety Stock Levels

Ensures that all instrumentation has adequate stock levels for optimal performance.

Ensures stock control is monitored and maintained on a continuous basis.

1. Accurate Processing of Patient Samples

Performs the processing of routine and urgent samples according to standard operating procedures, thereby ensuring consistent workflow and meeting expectations.

Accounting for inconsistencies that may arise if outstanding checks are not reported and actioned.

Actively engage with external clients/suppliers with analyzer breakdowns, and failures.

1. Quality Assurance by Implementing Good Lab Practices Referencing SANAS/ISO 15189 Standards

Ensure the correct application for quality assurance processes by ensuring the completion of all tasks.

Run internal and external Quality control samples as per relevant standard operating procedures.

Ensures that equipment is maintained and calibrated in line with defined processes and procedures.

1. Health, Safety and Environment

Ensures that all staff are compliant to all Health and Safety rules and regulations to prevent incidents and minimize exposure to risks to personnel and the environment. Willing and able to represent as an officer when required. Ensure proper housekeeping and bench decontamination.

1. Pre and Post Analytical

Administers sorting and distribution of samples according to set standard operating procedures to ensure the correct and prioritized channeling of specimens to various laboratories/sites.

Processes sample registration (logging) and queries according to set standard operating procedures.

Ensures dispatching of specimens for processing in accordance with prescribed standard operating procedures and monitors progress and filing of reports, including handling queries and report delivery, in line with prescribed turnaround time.

Investigates bottleneck in pre-analytical laboratory processes and ensure timely resolution of challenges.

Receives cash from patients and ensures banking of monies in accordance with relevant standard operating procedures.

Prepares and scans patient forms onto the scanning system and resolves the scanning incompletes according to set standard operating procedures.

Maintain Client communication and documentation to record feedback to the department heads including reviews and client feedback.

Following the process for the Client feedback loop, identifying relevant issues, complaints, comments, improvements, and opportunities.

Translate Client queries in the company's system and engage across departments to resolve queries within tight deadlines.

Actively participate in departmental meetings, training interventions and periodic evaluations.

JOB PURPOSE:

To provide quality medical laboratory services by performing routine analytical procedures, maintaining equipment, controlling quality assurance within the sphere of responsibility, Administers Pre-analytical and Post-analytical functions, in accordance with service goals. Effective communication including feedback with all role players, internally and externally. Handling, managing and completion of tasks within the specific targeted times.

QUALIFICATION/KNOWLEDGE:

Relevant Science Degree or Diploma

HPCSA Registration will be an advantage

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

1. Meet Tests Turn Around Times Within Targeted Timeframes and Standards

Receive, distribute and process samples within TATs and according to standard operating procedures.

Executing systems to meet 95% of TAT performance.

1. Actively Manages Stock Levels Within Agreed Parameters and Safety Stock Levels

Ensures that all instrumentation has adequate stock levels for optimal performance.

Ensures stock control is monitored and maintained on a continuous basis.

1. Accurate Processing of Patient Samples

Performs the processing of routine and urgent samples according to standard operating procedures, thereby ensuring consistent workflow and meeting expectations.

Accounting for inconsistencies that may arise if outstanding checks are not reported and actioned.

Actively engage with external clients/suppliers with analyzer breakdowns, and failures.

1. Quality Assurance by Implementing Good Lab Practices Referencing SANAS/ISO 15189 Standards

Ensure the correct application for quality assurance processes by ensuring the completion of all tasks.

Run internal and external Quality control samples as per relevant standard operating procedures.

Ensures that equipment is maintained and calibrated in line with defined processes and procedures.

1. Health, Safety and Environment

Ensures that all staff are compliant to all Health and Safety rules and regulations to prevent incidents and minimize exposure to risks to personnel and the environment. Willing and able to represent as an officer when required. Ensure proper housekeeping and bench decontamination.

1. Pre and Post Analytical

Administers sorting and distribution of samples according to set standard operating procedures to ensure the correct and prioritized channeling of specimens to various laboratories/sites.

Processes sample registration (logging) and queries according to set standard operating procedures.

Ensures dispatching of specimens for processing in accordance with prescribed standard operating procedures and monitors progress and filing of reports, including handling queries and report delivery, in line with prescribed turnaround time.

Investigates bottleneck in pre-analytical laboratory processes and ensure timely resolution of challenges.

Receives cash from patients and ensures banking of monies in accordance with relevant standard operating procedures.

Prepares and scans patient forms onto the scanning system and resolves the scanning incompletes according to set standard operating procedures.

Maintain Client communication and documentation to record feedback to the department heads including reviews and client feedback.

Following the process for the Client feedback loop, identifying relevant issues, complaints, comments, improvements, and opportunities.

Translate Client queries in the company's system and engage across departments to resolve queries within tight deadlines.

Actively participate in departmental meetings, training interventions and periodic evaluations.