Qualification Required
Minimum qualification of a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or related field.
Experience Required
At least 3 years of relevant experience working in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
Implementation of accredited methods, increasing the scope of accreditation and a particular understanding of the technical processes of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS analysis of pesticide residues.
Interpretation and evaluation of test results.
Trouble shooting of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS.
Method validation and creation of validation reports according to EURACHEM regulations.
Analysis of pesticide residues using the QuEChERS extraction technique.
Key Responsibilities
Co-ordinates the use of analytical equipment to ensure maximum throughput in the laboratory.
Maximise analytical volumes per day.
Performs internal verification of equipment (balances, volumetric flasks, pipettes)
Ensures that the accommodation and environmental conditions of the laboratory are controlled and recorded accordingly.
Checking quality and suitability of chemicals.
Sample registration on LIMS
Preparation of reference standards.
Preparation of daily solvents and standards.
Participation in proficiency testing schemes.
Routine preventative maintenance of the GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS instruments.
Checking and authorising certificates of analysis for pesticide results as a SANAS approved technical signatory.
Troubleshooting-instruments/QC samples/test results/equipment.
Attend and participate in laboratory meetings.
Assist with the clearance of non-conformances – root cause analysis.
Effective communication and reporting that leads to improved internal relationships and decisions.
Knowledge Required
In depth knowledge of ISO 17025, implementation, and improvements.
Method validation according to EURACHEM regulations.
Sound knowledge of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS instrumentation and method validation.
Pesticide residue analysis using the QuEChERS extraction technique.
Skills Required
Well-developed interpersonal skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Sound technical record keeping techniques.
Ability to work under pressure.
Propensity to pay attention to detail.
Computer literate- MS Outlook, Word & Excel.
The Perishable Products Export Control Board
The Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) is an independent service provider of quality certification and cold chain management services for South African producers and exporters of perishable food products.
Established in 1926, the PPECB has delivered valuable services to the perishable products industry for over 90 years by enhancing the credibility of the South African export certificate and supporting the export competitiveness of South Africa's perishable product industries.
PPECB inspectors, stationed across South Africa, deliver end-point inspection services on over 200 perishable product types destined for export at over 1500 locations. Products approved for export carry the passed for export stamp, regarded as a symbol of quality assurance to clients and consumers around the world.
In addition to conducting quality inspections of perishable products, the PPECB is also responsible for South Africa's cold chain management and ensuring that products for export are handled, stored and transported at specific temperatures and optimum conditions.
Apart from product inspections and cold chain management, ensuring food safety is also high on the PPECB's list of strategic focuses. Ultimately the PPECB ensures that Food Business Operators (FBOs) comply with the standards regarding food hygiene and food safety of regulated agricultural food products intended for export.
The PPECBs Food Safety Services are furthermore supported by its Laboratory which is geared for the delivery of analytical services such as mycotoxin analysis, fats analysis, dairy testing and maximum residue level (MRL) testing of pesticides in a myriad of matrices.
By combining this vast range of expertise and services the PPECB is perfectly positioned to support South African exporters and enhance the credibility of the South African export certificate in the global marketplace.
