The Foundation for Professional Development (FPD) invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Laboratory Assistant at its Ndevana Community Research Site. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to vital research activities by supporting laboratory operations, including specimen handling, inventory management, and basic testing under supervision.

Position: Laboratory Assistant
Department: Research Department
Reports to: Research Laboratory Manager
Location: Ndevana Community Research Site
Annual salary range: R107,754 – R114,091 plus rural allowance
(Please note that the salary range mentioned is indicative only. The offer to the successful candidate will be determined within this salary range, based on the candidate’s relevant qualifications and experience).

Purpose of the position:
To support laboratory operations at FPD’s Ndevana Community Research Site by assisting with specimen collection, processing, storage, inventory management, and basic laboratory tasks under the supervision of the Laboratory Manager or senior laboratory staff.

Scope of work:

• Assist with temperature monitoring and recording in the laboratory.
• Open and label kits for sample collection.
• Assist with specimen handling, centrifugation, and aliquoting under supervision.
• Support basic laboratory testing under supervision.
• Receive, pack, and maintain laboratory stock.
• Assist with inventory management and ordering of supplies.
• Maintain cleanliness and order in the laboratory environment.
• Prepare and organize laboratory equipment, samples, and materials.
• Support shipping of ambient and frozen samples and coordinate sample pickups with drivers.
• Assist with documentation required for clinical trials, audits, and routine laboratory processes.
• Assist with filing and maintenance of laboratory records.
• Take minutes during laboratory meetings.
• Perform other reasonable duties as assigned by the Laboratory Manager.

Qualifications and registration:

• Grade 12 (essential).
• Certificate in Laboratory Assistance (essential).
• Registration with the HPCSA as a Laboratory Assistant, with a valid and active practicing certificate (essential).
• Valid certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) (advantageous).
• Dangerous Goods/IATA training certificate (advantageous).

Experience required:

• 1 – 2 years relevant experience in a laboratory, research, or healthcare setting.
• Experience with specimen handling and basic laboratory procedures.
• Familiarity with shipping biological specimens and regulatory documentation.

Additional requirements:

• Proficiency in reading, speaking, and writing English.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• AI Literacy: Ability to use AI tools to support everyday tasks.
• Willingness to travel.
• Willingness to work reasonable irregular or extended hours when required, in accordance with the BCEA.

Closing date for applications:
30 September 2025 at 16h00

The Foundation for Professional Development fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace. We invite and encourage qualified candidates with disabilities to apply for positions within our organization. In line with the company’s Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified male candidates from designated groups.

Please note:
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you have not been contacted within four weeks after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. The company reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application process:
Interested candidates can apply for the Laboratory Assistant position by visiting the Foundation for Professional Development’s official vacancies portal at https://vacancies.fpdsiu.co.za/. Applicants should complete the online application process before the closing date of 30 September 2025 at 16h00. It is important to ensure that all required qualifications, certifications, and documentation are submitted accurately. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and those not contacted within four weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.