Quality Control Chemist

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big.

When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future. 

Main Purpose of the Job

The position is based at the laboratory in ALS Laboratory Namibia, and reports to the Lab manager. ALS operates 24/7 and the Employee must be able to work shifts and flexi hours. The responsibilities of the Employee are not restricted to the list below and is subject to change depending on business needs.

Position in the Organisation

The position reports into the Lab Manager and is based at ALS Laboratory Namibia

Scope of the Job

To provide support in the processing of Samples

• Compliance

·         Practice the ALS Health and Safety Foundation Standards.

·         Practice the ALS company core values.

·         Abide by the ALS company policies and procedures.

·         Abide by local legislative requirements at all times.

·         Ensure compliance with ISO accreditation

·         Execute the duties described in this document to the best of your ability and in the best interests of the company

Duties/ Responsibilities:

• Ensure that timely and quality results are reported to clients through sound analytical analysis and correct QC interpretation
• Implement and maintain the quality system according to the requirements of ISO 9001 and ISO 17025
• Minimize the number of amended work orders due to error.
• Ensure staff members have the training and skills to successfully complete the tasks assigned.
• Provide technical input to the Analytical/Instrumentation section to ensure the highest data quality is generated by the EDXRF instrument.
• Check and approve outgoing analytical data.
• Ensure QPs, QWIs, SOPs or client specific procedures are followed
• Advise on inventory, consumable purchases and maintaining adequate stock levels.
• Ensure all analytical instruments/equipment are properly maintained to minimize breakdowns and downtime.
• Ensure efficient operation of all analytical instruments and all work is completed on time with a high degree of accuracy.
• Maximize productivity and efficiency through improved work practices.
• Effectively and efficiently utilize resources to minimize wastage.
• Remain client focused by exceeding their expectations.
• Ensure ongoing training and staff development
• Optimize turnaround time and ensure accurate, timely results are achieved and maintained.
• Propose improvements in routine and non-routine procedures and ensure timeous validation of new methods.
• Ensure all documentation related to instrument maintenance, calibration and training are always up to date and available.
• Overall responsibility for run and workorder approvals for EDXRF instrument.
• Provide technical support, training and mentoring of junior staff from time to time
• Daily Management of the Analytical/Instrumentation section to ensure quality, turnaround, HSE targets are met.
• Overall responsible for the departments HSE compliance.
• Drive continuous improvement in Quality and Productivity.
• Coordinate participation in internal and external round robins / Proficiency testing schemes for Copper Cathodes. Ensure satisfactory performance.
• Organize workload according to daily stats and turnaround time demands
• Follow up on priority work orders.
• Carry out QC and SHE investigations when required. Capable of working unsupervised
• Assist with repair and maintenance scheduling of all instruments/equipment in the section.
• Assist with the ordering of consumables and other related instrumentation supplies
• Perform all other reasonable duties as determined by line management.

Competencies required for the role are as follows:

Behavioural Competencies

·        Supervisory skills, able to manage teams

·        Able to prioritize and give accurate feedback on time

·        High standards of attention to detail

·        Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines

·        Able to anticipate needs and must be responsive to enquiries

·        Facilitates a team-oriented approach at organizational level

·        Inspires and drives excellence in all aspects of work.

·        Team player approach

Technical Competencies

·        Ability to identify HSE risk and report to manager / team leader

·        High level of integrity

·        Ability to multitask and meet challenging deadlines.

·        Good understanding of ALS policies, protocols, and Instrumentation work procedures.

·        Good understanding of LIMs system

·        Ability to perform QC functions

·       Good understanding of ED-XRF instrumentation equipment

·        Excellent numerical and analytical skills

·        Ability to operate instrumentation for analysis on either AA or ICP or Spark OES and XRF

·        Good MS Word and Excel skills

·        Have in depth knowledge of classical wet chemistry or geochemical digestion methods

Qualifications

·         To be successful in this role you will have:

·         Chemistry/Science/Geology/Engineering Degree from a recognized University or Institution and or in-depth understanding and knowledge of Chemistry or Geology.

·         Atleast 2-5 years Laboratory experience

·         An in-depth knowledge of Quality Management and ISO 17025 accreditation processes.

·         Demonstrated hands-on knowledge of operating Spectroscopic Instruments pXRF and ED-XRF

·         Sound technical knowledge of Geochemical analytical techniques

·         A strong customer focus

·         

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world.

Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. 

At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programs and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. 

We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued.

ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process are available upon request. 

Eligibility
To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or either hold or be able to obtain, a valid working visa.

How to apply
Please apply on-line and provide a resume & cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role.