Job Role

The Laboratory Technologist is responsible for carrying out laboratory tests, analyses, and technical procedures in accordance with established methods, quality standards, and safety requirements. The role involves preparing samples, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, recording and interpreting results, and ensuring that laboratory activities are conducted accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable procedures.

2. PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• Conduct accurate and timely laboratory tests and analyses to support operational and technical requirements.
• Ensure samples are properly collected, received, labelled, prepared, stored, and tested.
• Maintain the reliability of laboratory equipment, testing methods, and results.
• Uphold laboratory quality assurance, documentation, and safety standards.
• Provide clear, accurate, and timely test results and reports to relevant stakeholders.
• Support continuous improvement of laboratory processes and service delivery.

3. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Sample Handling & Preparation

• Receive, identify, label, register, and prepare samples for testing in line with approved procedures.
• Verify sample condition, quantity, and suitability for analysis, and report any discrepancies.
• Ensure samples and reagents are stored, handled, and disposed of appropriately.
• Maintain traceability of samples throughout the testing process.

B. Laboratory Testing & Analysis

• Perform routine and specialised laboratory tests using approved methods and standard operating procedures.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, media, and other testing materials as required.
• Operate laboratory instruments and equipment correctly to obtain reliable results.
• Calculate, verify, and record test results accurately, escalating abnormal or unexpected findings.
• Repeat or investigate tests where results fall outside established limits or quality requirements.

C. Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Follow laboratory standard operating procedures, quality-control protocols, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Conduct routine quality-control checks and participate in calibration, validation, and proficiency-testing activities where applicable.
• Identify non-conformities, testing errors, or deviations and report them to the supervisor promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity of laboratory data and test results.

D. Equipment & Laboratory Maintenance

• Carry out routine cleaning, inspection, and basic maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Monitor equipment performance and report faults or calibration needs for timely action.
• Ensure equipment, workstations, and laboratory areas are clean, organised, and ready for use.
• Monitor laboratory consumables and reagents and communicate replenishment requirements.

E. Health, Safety & Waste Management

• Comply with laboratory health, safety, hygiene, and biosafety procedures applicable to the work environment.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment and handle chemicals, biological materials, and other hazards safely.
• Segregate and dispose of laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures.
• Report accidents, spills, unsafe conditions, and near misses immediately.

F. Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory registers, worksheets, equipment logs, and test records.
• Prepare and submit test reports within agreed timelines and in the required format.
• Ensure results and supporting records are legible, traceable, and properly filed.
• Provide technical information to supervisors and relevant departments when required.

Qualification

4. QUALIFICATIONS

• Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Applied Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Analytical Chemistry, or another relevant laboratory-related field, depending on the nature of the laboratory.
• At least 3 years of relevant laboratory experience is preferred; candidates with strong practical experience in the specific testing environment may be considered.
• Practical experience in sample preparation, laboratory testing, equipment operation, quality control, and documentation.
• Relevant professional registration or practising licence is required where applicable to the laboratory discipline.
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, quality standards, and standard operating procedures.

5. COMPETENCIES

• Laboratory testing, sample preparation, and analytical techniques.
• Quality control, result verification, and accurate data recording.
• Understanding of laboratory safety, chemical handling, and waste management.
• Technical report writing and laboratory record management.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and identify deviations.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Careful, methodical, and safety-conscious approach to work.