Analyst

Job Purpose

The incumbent is required to perform a wide range of microbiological analyses on edible and inedible samples submitted to the laboratory in accordance with relevant/established/applicable testing methods while simultaneously meeting quality assurance standards. The office is also responsible for assisting in the development of test methods, coordinating the laboratory quality control programmes and conducting research work towards setting microbiological limits. Furthermore, the maintenance of the BSJ's internal quality systems which encompasses file management and inventory control is a direct function of this position. 

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct microbiological analysis on food and non-food samples submitted to the Laboratory and interpret results were possible. 
• Conduct research to source/amend test methods, using laboratory manuals, the internet or through networking with laboratories both locally and internationally. 
• Prepare test reports, job costings, quotations and other relevant documents as the need arise. 
• Update and Manage Laboratory files both manually and electronically 
• Assist in the development and maintenance of a Laboratory Quality System 
• Participate in local and international inter-comparisons or Proficiency Testing 
• Manage stock, culture, and make recommendation for the purchase of inventory supplies 
• Provide assistance to manufacturers by the testing of food and non-food items for the purpose of assessing the microbial quality of the product, determining cause of spoilage and checking compliance to specifications. 
• Conduct analyses on antibacterial soaps, disinfectants and preservatives in order to determine efficacy 
• Conduct literature survey relevant to work being done. 
• Evaluate test results and overall quality trends with a broad understanding of the technologies involved in the processing of food and submission of recommendations to the food control systems for regulatory and policy decisions, and the industry for improvements on safety and quality measures 
• Sign test reports and other documents as necessary
• Ensure that proper quality control is in effect in the laboratory by monitoring and supervising the programmes developed. 
• Participate in the maintenance of quality system and associated documentation 
• Visit food manufacturing establishments, cosmetic factories and retail outlets for the purpose of collecting samples and conducting inspections.
• Assist with stock taking as scheduled 
• Assist with documentation of new test methods and participate in updating existing ones for the laboratory manual. 
• Assist with training of new staff members and industry quality control personnel 
• Assist the Manager in overall Laboratory planning and work planning. 
• Assist the Quality Coordinator in all quality related activities in the Laboratory 
• Monitor the performance of equipment, supervise their maintenance and assist in solving analytical problems. 
• Receive samples ensuring their validity for testing and assigning samples for testing. 
• Ensure the availability of supplies and services meeting quality requirements. 
• Ensure that the record keeping activities, laboratory safety procedures, rules & regulations and housekeeping practices are properly followed. 
• Recommend to the Manager the future needs of equipment and supplies 
• Practice Good Laboratory Safety principles when conducting work 
• Represent the branch on technical and non-technical committees. 
• Represent BSJ at local and international fora. 
• Treat, store or dispose of hazardous material in an environmentally responsible manner 
• Maintain work spaces in a neat and ordered manner 
• Any other duties under the mandate of the section 

Unusual Requirements/Working Conditions:

• Good hand/eye coordination 
• Ability to handle hazardous materials with appropriate safety gear 

Minimum Educational Requirements:

• B.Sc. in Biological Sciences, Microbiology, Biotechnology or related discipline from recognized tertiary Institution 
• Specialized training in Food Microbiology 
• Knowledge of Laboratory accreditation systems 

Experience:

• Two (2) years of experience in an Analytical Laboratory similar to that of the BSJ 
• Work experience in relation to aseptic techniques and microbiology or chemical laboratory, safety, proficient in Microsoft Office Suite 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of scientific research techniques 
• Working knowledge of laboratory management systems e.g. ISO/IEC 17025 
• Working knowledge of microbial and chemical analyses, methodologies and techniques 
• Working knowledge of Entomology 
• Good team player 
• Adaptable and eager to learn 
• Good customer service attitude 
• Good interpersonal and communication skills 

Mental Demand:

• To solve technical and analytical challenges
• To interpret and report results from tests performed
• To meet monthly reporting deadlines
• To meet unit objectives based on departmental/divisional goals
• To keep abreast of changes in Microbiology and testing internationally 

Physical Demand:

• Standing for prolonged periods
• Manipulation and lifting of equipment 

Equipment Used:

• Computers
• Specialized/calibrated glassware
• Specialized testing and measuring machines which may or may not be fully computer controlled.