Main job function 1.1.SCHEDULING OF AND SAMPLE PROCESSING - all test aspects in seed health testing and seed quality testing as well as the bacterial laboratory1.1.1. Assist in planning and scheduling of sample processing.1.1.2. Assist in arranging and allocating tasks in processing to laboratory assistants (permanent and/or part-time) where and when applicable to the sample type and through-put.1.1.3. Perform sample processing methods in collaboration with the senior technologists and seed analysts in compliance with protocols, procedures, ISTA, and ISO/IEC 17025.1.1.4. Preparation of buffers, reagents, and media necessary for sample processing in compliance with protocols, procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025.1.1.5. Perform sample processing methods in collaboration with senior technologists and seed analysts in compliance with protocols, procedures, ISTA, and ISO/IEC 17025.1.2.THE EXECUTION OF TESTS AND METHODS - all test aspects in seed health testing and seed quality testing as well as the bacterial laboratory1.2.1. Assist in planning and scheduling sample analysis after sample preparation. 1.2.2. Preparation of equipment, apparatus, and consumables to use in test activities in the execution of seed quality testing (sample reduction; purity analysis; gemination analysis), seed health testing (TSW determination; sample reduction; preparation of samples; dilution plating of samples; evaluation of microbial growth on media; isolation and identification of suspect isolates) and bacterial testing in compliance with protocols, procedures, ISTA, and ISO/IEC 17025. 1.2.3. Performing seed quality testing (sample reduction; purity analysis; gemination analysis), and seed health testing (TSW determination; sample reduction; preparation of samples; dilution plating of samples; evaluation of microbial growth on media; isolation and identification of suspect isolates) in compliance with protocols, procedures, ISTA, and ISO/IEC 17025. 1.2.4. Plating out samples as part of methods of conventional assays in the detection and isolation of Ralstonia spp. as well as soft rot causing Enterobacteria in compliance with protocols, procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025. 1.2.5. Assist in the maintenance of the culture collection for bean pathogens, potato bacterial pathogens and registration thereof in compliance with protocols, procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025.1.3.CONTINUED COMPETENCE AND SELF-IMPROVEMENT1.3.1. Keep knowledgeable in all aspects of sample handling and processing, methods and the techniques, reagents, and kits as well as equipment and apparatus used to facilitate continuous improvement of laboratory and self by attending courses and doing literature studies.1.3.2. Improve knowledge about specific protocols, procedures, ISTA rules, and ISO/IEC 17025 to identify departures.1.3.3. Continued competence in understanding and application of ISTA and ISO/IEC 17025 in test aspects.1.3.4. Attendance of forums, congresses and seminars as recommended by Management.1.3.5. Investigative searches to possibilities of improvement, preventative actions, and minimizing risks.1.3.6. Communicate/recommend possibilities to Management in acquiring approval. 1.4.LIASON1.4.1. Liaison with suppliers of products and services applicable the relevant test actions and laboratory.1.4.2. Liaison with the client/s. 1.4.3. Attendance of Industry forums and congresses when recommended by Management. 1.5.SUPERVISORY CAPACITY AND TRAINING1.5.1. Responsible and supervising assistants (permanent or part-time) in sample handling and processing in relevant test activities.1.5.2. Responsible and supervise the preparation of media and reagents to use during sample processing and testing in compliance with protocols, procedures, ISTA, and ISO/IEC 17025 from time to time. 1.5.3. Responsible for and/or supervise effective housekeeping in the bacterial laboratory and applicable areas. 1.6.STAND-IN FOR (refer to individual profiles):1.6.1. Bacterial laboratory1.6.1.1. Potato bacterial pathogen analysis1.6.2. Seed testing Laboratory (registered seed analyst) 1.6.2.1. Seed Quality testing.1.6.2.2. Seed Health testing. 1.7.QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONS:1.7.1. Intermediate verification of pipettes and balances. 1.7.2. Environmental monitoring of laboratories and equipment within the scope of testing and in the applicable sections.1.7.3. Acquisition and stock control of kits, reagents, and critical consumables in compliance with protocols, procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025 as well as keeping the current Certificates of Analysis and Safety Data Sheets on file.1.7.4. Quality control activities in compliance with a pre-determined schedule and in compliance with protocols, procedures, and ISO/IEC 17025.1.7.5. Verification of controls for use in conventional microbiological assays.1.7.6. Partake in intra-laboratory, interlaboratory testing as well as proficiency testing when applicable.1.7.7. Have sufficient knowledge of the applicable methods and objectives thereof. A Consultant will be in touch if you are shortlisted for the position. Please consider your application unsuccessful should you not have been contacted within 2 weeks. We will keep your CV on our database and contact you should you match the criteria of any other vacancies.