Repository Technician
On-siteCape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Job Summary
Oversee the day-to-day operation of the laboratory specimen repository, ensuring specimen integrity, traceability, and uninterrupted cold chain management within liquid nitrogen and –80°C storage systems. Maintain accurate inventories and records in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), coordinate specimen requests, and perform hands-on retrieval, accessioning, and shipment preparation in accordance with IATA regulations and GCLP requirements. Manage repository equipment maintenance, calibration, and procurement while serving as the Laboratory Safety Officer to promote compliance with safety policies and conduct risk assessments. Provide on-call and after-hours support for urgent laboratory issues and ensure continuous availability of critical consumables. Perform quality control reviews of documentation to support internal and external audits, representing repository functions during inspections and implementing corrective actions where necessary.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or BTech in a relevant field (e.g., Biomedical Technology) or equivalent diploma/Medical Technician certification (Chemical/Clinical Pathology, Haematology, Microbiology, or Immunology)
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a GCLP-compliant or similarly auditable laboratory environment within South Africa
- Valid IATA certification for international biological specimen shipments
- Demonstrate experience in cold-chain management, specimen processing, and laboratory operations
- Strong coordination skills to support efficient specimen handling and transfer within a South African healthcare/research setting
- Hands-on experience troubleshooting laboratory equipment and managing vendor/service provider relationships
- Strong knowledge of Quality Assurance, Quality Control, and GCLP laboratory standards
- High attention to detail in laboratory processes, documentation, and SOP compliance
- Organised, methodical approach to hands-on lab work, with the ability to guide and support others
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary and international teams in a South African research environment
- Self-motivated and able to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
- Adaptable and flexible in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, with a continuous improvement mindset
- Sound judgment and decision-making skills, with the ability to respond effectively under pressure
- Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) Consent to Use and Collection of Personal Information, Including Consent to Background Check
Desired Qualifications
- familiarity with LDMS and LabWare
- Proficient in MS Office (advanced Excel); experience with document management systems (e.g., SharePoint, Veeva) preferred
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