JOB PURPOSE

The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for conducting accurate and timely testing of raw materials, in-process samples and finished fish feed products to ensure they meet approved quality and safety specifications.

The position requires accuracy, integrity, discipline, attention to detail and accountability, as laboratory results are used to support raw material acceptance, production decisions and finished product release.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collect, receive and properly prepare raw material, in-process and finished feed samples for analysis.
• Conduct routine laboratory tests including moisture, protein, fat, fibre, ash and other required quality parameters.
• Perform physical quality checks on finished feed, including pellet size, appearance, durability and floatability.
• Conduct mycotoxin/aflatoxin testing using approved methods and equipment.
• Operate laboratory equipment such as NIR, moisture analysers, analytical balances, laboratory mills and other testing equipment.
• Accurately record, verify and report laboratory results in approved records or systems.
• Compare results against approved specifications and immediately report out-of-specification results.
• Carry out routine equipment checks, cleaning and basic maintenance, and report faults or calibration issues.
• Follow approved SOPs, test methods, quality procedures and SHEQ requirements.
• Maintain good laboratory housekeeping, hygiene and safe handling and disposal of chemicals and laboratory waste.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12 Certificate – mandatory.
• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Laboratory Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Microbiology or a related field.
• Previous laboratory experience is an advantage.

KEY SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good record-keeping and reporting skills.
• Integrity and accountability.
• Ability to follow procedures and work independently.

• Collect, receive and properly prepare raw material, in-process and finished feed samples for analysis.
• Conduct routine laboratory tests including moisture, protein, fat, fibre, ash and other required quality parameters.
• Perform physical quality checks on finished feed, including pellet size, appearance, durability and floatability.
• Conduct mycotoxin/aflatoxin testing using approved methods and equipment.
• Operate laboratory equipment such as NIR, moisture analysers, analytical balances, laboratory mills and other testing equipment.
• Accurately record, verify and report laboratory results in approved records or systems.
• Compare results against approved specifications and immediately report out-of-specification results.
• Carry out routine equipment checks, cleaning and basic maintenance, and report faults or calibration issues.
• Follow approved SOPs, test methods, quality procedures and SHEQ requirements.
• Maintain good laboratory housekeeping, hygiene and safe handling and disposal of chemicals and laboratory waste.

• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good record-keeping and reporting skills.
• Integrity and accountability.
• Ability to follow procedures and work independently.

• Grade 12 Certificate – mandatory.
• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Laboratory Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, Microbiology or a related field.
• Previous laboratory experience is an advantage.