Responsibilities
Reporting to the Analytical Services Manager, responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
· Carrying out analytical and chemical analysis on feed products, cereals, herbage, soil and water samples in a timely manner to meet customer deadlines.
· Responsible for accurate logging of samples, selection of samples for analysis and ensuring tests are carried out in an accurate and timely manner using only approved in-house laboratory methods and producing customer reports to the ISO17025 standard.
· The analysis is carried out in accordance with defined methods to accredited laboratory standards; achieving and retaining ISO 17025 Accreditation for the Laboratory.
· Adhere to the Dairygold Analytical Services Laboratory Procedures Manuals at all times.
· A basic understanding of all scientific calculations is required.
· Have a sufficient knowledge of reagents/chemicals to understand the consequences of exposing them to other elements e.g. air, water or other reagents/chemicals.
· Have a sufficient knowledge of the interactions between acids and bases and be able to prepare various normalities and strengths.
· Understand the principles of all calibrations and carry out the calibration schedule required.
· Liaise with external and internal maintenance staff to ensure all equipment is in perfect working order.
· Have sufficient knowledge of laboratory equipment to identify problems as they arise.
· Ensure all test validations are carried out in accordance with the ISO17025 standard.
· Ensure the laboratory is clean and tidy at the end of each working day and all relevant instrumentation is turned off.
· Maintain adequate stocks to ensure our service to customers is not interrupted.
· Follow all control charts to ensure trends and drifts are identified and acted upon at an early stage.
· Calibrate, maintain and operate standard laboratory equipment.
· Participate in proficiency schemes to verify accuracy and competency.
· Ensure work practices comply with all health and safety and environmental standards.
Skills & Competencies
· Be qualified with a Degree and Masters in Analytical Chemistry or another related qualification with a strong chemistry background – essential.
· Have a knowledge of LCMS, HPLC, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy and the associated computer applications – essential.
· This Laboratory is INAB accredited and all individuals working within the laboratory are required to work to the standards demanded by this accreditation.
Requirements
· Qualification Required: Masters in Analytical Chemistry
· Work Experience Required: 2+ years relevant experience.
· Possess proven experience in and thorough knowledge of laboratory procedures and processes.
· Have strong IT skills and be competent in the use of LIMS, Word and Excel
· Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to interact confidently with internal and external customers.
· Be resilient and capable of dealing with pressurised situations and deadlines.
· Have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to resolve issues in a timely manner.
· Have a clear understanding of the ISO17025 standard
