Laboratory Manager job vacancy in Swellendam. The Laboratory Manager is responsible for the effective management of laboratory operations, staff, systems, and equipment to ensure the consistent delivery of accurate testing, food safety compliance, and quality assurance standards. The role oversees laboratory functions, implementation and maintenance of quality management systems, staff development, and adherence to food safety, health, and safety regulations. Salary: R52 000 – R58 000 per month. Duties and Responsibilities: Laboratory Operations and Quality Management Manage the overall operation, servicing, and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation and equipment Ensure calibration and verification checks are conducted on all laboratory instruments Implement, maintain, and continuously improve the ISO 17025 Laboratory Management System Ensure compliance with Food Safety and Quality Management Systems, including HACCP, ISO, and FSSC standards Verify laboratory test results and product information for accuracy and compliance Conduct method validation and quality verification checks Investigate, analyse, and report on questionable or non-conforming test results Ensure laboratory procedures and testing activities align with company policies and regulatory standards Maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and safety standards within the laboratory environment Technical and Analytical Support Handle general laboratory queries and requests from internal departments and external customers Manage special Certificate of Analysis (COA) requests Assist with research projects and conduct test studies where required Interpret laboratory data and compile technical reports Ensure preparation, handling, and submission of product samples according to the External Analysis Schedule Ensure adherence to company sampling plans and procedures Equipment and Consumables Management Oversee the purchasing and control of laboratory chemicals, consumables, and related materials Ensure laboratory equipment is maintained, serviced, and functioning effectively Monitor inventory levels and ensure operational readiness of laboratory resources Prepare and manage the laboratory budget in line with operational requirements Health and Safety Compliance Participate in safety meetings, forums, and awareness programmes Ensure compliance with company health and safety policies and procedures Conduct monthly safety inspections and follow up on corrective actions Report all safety incidents and hazards to the relevant parties Ensure protective clothing and safety equipment are used correctly at all times Distribute safety-related information and ensure ongoing compliance awareness Employee Management and Development Manage and supervise the laboratory team to ensure operational efficiency and compliance Ensure all employees have clearly defined job profiles and performance expectations Conduct regular performance and goal reviews Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and support to team members Ensure training and development plans are implemented for all employees Allocate resources effectively to meet operational demands Ensure effective communication within the laboratory team Support succession planning and staff development initiatives Student Management and Development Ensure students receive the required training and practical exposure Ensure research projects and workplace learning activities align with academic and business requirements Support the implementation of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programmes within the department Provide coaching, mentoring, and guidance to students Ensure all required WIL documentation is completed and submitted timeously Role Requirements: BSc Honours Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or Food Sciences Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a managerial capacity Minimum of 3 years’ laboratory experience Experience implementing and maintaining ISO 17025 Management Systems Knowledge of Food Safety and Quality Management Systems, including HACCP, ISO, and FSSC Experience working with specialised laboratory equipment, including GC, ICP, NIR, Lovibond, Spectrophotometer, HPLC, and GC-MS systems Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Good time management and organisational skills Quality and food safety orientated mindset High levels of commitment, ownership, and integrity Willingness to learn and continuously improve Strong leadership and people management capabilities #J-18808-Ljbffr