Laboratory Supervisor

SUMMARY:
Our Client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Laboratory Supervisor to oversee the effective and efficient management of chemical and battery testing processes. This key role will ensure testing is conducted in accordance with internal standards, OEM requirements, and international customer specifications.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:
Laboratory Operations – Testing & Reporting

• Conduct incoming product chemical/elemental testing and verify Certificates of Conformance (COCs) as outlined in the Laboratory Control Plan.
• Ensure timely testing, processing of data, and verification of records for easy retrieval.
• Oversee manufacturing in-process product testing, adhering to defined methods in the Laboratory Control Plan.
• Manage third-party specialized laboratory testing.
• Perform finished product audits, including battery performance testing and requalification for compliance with customer specifications and standards.
• Present data in clear, statistical formats for efficient review and understanding.
• Conduct observational audits to ensure accurate test methods are followed and results are reported on time.
• Provide input for Approved Supplier Scorecards and collaborate with third-party laboratories to drive continuous improvement and cost reduction.
• Evaluate and distribute test results to relevant teams on time.
• Maintain compliance with audit schedules and ensure customer feedback is integrated for ongoing improvement.

• Ensure laboratory operations fully comply with ISO 17025 standards.
• Identify and report risks or concerns within the department to management.
• Strictly adhere to and enforce Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental legislation to mitigate risks.
• Achieve successful audits for Health & Safety, Environmental, and Quality standards.
• Report identified risks to management promptly.

• Build and maintain positive relationships with both internal and external customers to deliver top-quality service.
• Collaborate with teams to solve problems while upholding high levels of integrity and professionalism.
• Achieve positive customer feedback and be recognized as a team player during performance reviews.

• Manage the development and tracking of the laboratory skills matrix, promoting employee versatility and skill growth.
• Set objectives for the laboratory team and conduct performance reviews at least twice annually.

• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained and serviced.
• Contribute to budget preparation and ensure transparent financial resource usage.
• Identify opportunities for cost control and waste reduction to promote efficiency.
• Report faulty equipment promptly and monitor budget expenditure closely.

Job Requirements

• Minimum: Diploma in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (NQF 6).
• Advantageous: Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (NQF 7).

• Minimum: 3–5 years of laboratory operations experience in a manufacturing environment, including at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Advantageous: 5–7 years in laboratory operations within a manufacturing environment (preferably in the chemical industry), with 3–4 years in a supervisory/management capacity.

• Strong understanding of MSA, SPC, and statistical analysis.
• Proficiency in computer software (Excel, Minitab, and data visualization tools).
• Experience with SAP, Power BI, and Shopware is a plus.