External Job Title

Laboratory Supervisor

Client Description

A leading mining operation is seeking an experienced Laboratory Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day operations of its assay laboratory. The successful candidate will lead a team, ensure high-quality analytical testing, maintain laboratory accreditation standards, and drive safe, efficient, and compliant laboratory operations in support of mining and metallurgical activities.

Job Summary / Introduction

The Laboratory Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the assay laboratory by overseeing quality assurance, productivity, equipment, safety, and personnel. The role supervises laboratory staff, maintains ISO/IEC 17025 quality standards, manages laboratory resources, and ensures accurate analytical testing of mining and metallurgical samples while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily laboratory operations to ensure uninterrupted workflow.

• Manage QA/QC, productivity, equipment utilization, and laboratory resources.

• Plan and maintain shift structures and work schedules.

• Oversee laboratory equipment maintenance, servicing, and repairs.

• Lead, coach, train, and supervise laboratory personnel.

• Support recruitment, performance management, and disciplinary processes.

• Ensure compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.

• Analyse rock, pulp, slurry, water, and other mining-related samples using approved analytical methods.

• Verify analytical results through repeat testing where required.

• Prepare and standardise reagents and calibration standards.

• Calibrate and maintain analytical instruments, including AAS equipment.

• Monitor staff performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.

• Compile laboratory reports and statistical quality control data.

• Ensure compliance with laboratory, mine, health, safety, and environmental procedures.

• Conduct safety observations, toolbox talks, and quality audits.

• Develop and validate analytical test methods.

• Drive continuous improvement in laboratory quality systems.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Laboratory Manager.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a gold assay laboratory.

• Previous supervisory experience is preferred.

• Experience operating analytical laboratory equipment such as AAS and laboratory balances.

• Experience implementing and maintaining ISO/IEC 17025 quality systems.

• Strong people management, coaching, and leadership skills.

• Computer literacy in Microsoft Word and Excel.

Education Requirements

• Grade 12 (or equivalent Advanced-Level education).

• National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or higher.

• Valid driver's licence.

• Willingness to work shifts.

Additional / Extra Information

• Permanent supervisory role within a mining assay laboratory.

• Reports directly to the Laboratory Manager and supervises Laboratory Technicians and Laboratory Assistants.

• Strong focus on laboratory quality, safety, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance.

• Requires knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 quality management systems.

• Involves leadership, technical laboratory oversight, and coordination of laboratory operations in a mining environment.