ICP Technicians [ICP-OES or ICP-MS instruments] Johannesburg

SUMMARY:

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities

Instrument Operation & Analysis

• Operate and monitor ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instruments for routine and non-routine elemental analysis.
• Prepare, analyse, and interpret samples according to approved laboratory methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Conduct calibration, standardization, and performance verification of analytical instruments.
• Review analytical data and identify anomalies or out-of-specification results.
• Generate accurate reports and communicate findings to relevant stakeholders.

Instrument Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform routine preventative maintenance on ICP equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve instrument-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Replace consumables and maintain instrument performance.
• Coordinate with instrument vendors and service providers when required.
• Maintain service logs and equipment maintenance records.

Sample Preparation

• Prepare samples using digestion, dilution, filtration, and extraction techniques.
• Ensure proper sample handling, storage, and chain-of-custody procedures.
• Maintain sample integrity throughout the analytical process.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Adhere to ISO 17025, GLP, GMP, and laboratory quality management systems where applicable.
• Conduct quality control checks, including blanks, duplicates, spikes, and certified reference materials.
• Participate in internal and external proficiency testing programmes.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate laboratory records and data management systems.
• Prepare technical reports and analytical summaries.
• Assist with method validation, verification, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure all documentation meets regulatory and audit requirements.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• National Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in:
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Chemistry
  • Chemical Technology
  • Environmental Science
  • Applied Science
  • Related Scientific Discipline

Experience

• Minimum 2–5 years' experience operating ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation.
• Experience in a commercial, mining, environmental, pharmaceutical, metallurgical, or research laboratory.
• Familiarity with sample digestion techniques and elemental analysis methodologies.
• Experience working within an ISO-accredited laboratory environment preferred.

Technical Competencies

• Strong knowledge of ICP-OES and ICP-MS analytical principles.
• Understanding of trace and ultra-trace elemental analysis.
• Experience with method development and validation.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems and quality control procedures.
• Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Competence in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to interpret analytical data and troubleshoot technical issues.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Analytical and critical-thinking ability.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Strong communication and report-writing skills.
• Commitment to laboratory safety and quality standards.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in mining, environmental testing, water analysis, pharmaceuticals, or metallurgical laboratories.
• Exposure to ISO 17025 accredited laboratories.
• Knowledge of acid digestion techniques and clean laboratory practices.
• Experience with Agilent, PerkinElmer, Thermo Fisher, Shimadzu, or Spectro ICP platforms.

Remuneration

Reporting To:

Working Conditions:

• Laboratory-based role.
• May require occasional overtime to meet testing deadlines.
• Compliance with laboratory PPE and safety requirements is mandatory