R&D LABORATORY & ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Silicone & Technical Products (S&TP) is looking for a motivated, organised and hands-on R&D Laboratory & Administrative Assistant to support our R&D Chemist and assist with the day-to-day coordination of laboratory, production and administrative activities.

This is a varied role suited to someone who enjoys working in a technical environment and is equally comfortable assisting with laboratory work, maintaining accurate records, coordinating materials and handling administrative responsibilities.

The successful candidate will work closely with our R&D Chemist while interacting with Production, Procurement, Stores and other departments.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Laboratory & R&D Support

• Assist the R&D Chemist with laboratory trials, testing and product development activities.
• Prepare samples, materials and equipment for laboratory tests and trials.
• Assist with routine testing and recording of test results.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with sample preparation, labelling, storage and retention.
• Help maintain an organised, clean and safe laboratory environment.
• Assist with the coordination and tracking of R&D projects, samples and trials.
• Provide general technical and administrative support to the R&D Chemist as required.

Production & Administrative Support

• Book in and process works orders accurately and timeously.
• Assist with production-related administration and documentation.
• Capture and maintain relevant records on company systems.
• Assist with the coordination and administration of production requirements.
• Follow up on outstanding documentation, materials and internal requests.
• Liaise with Production, Stores, Procurement and other departments to ensure information and materials flow efficiently.

Raw Materials, Purchasing & Stock

• Assist with raw material purchase requirements and purchase administration.
• Assist with stock transfers and the movement of materials between relevant locations or departments.
• Book raw materials and other stock into the relevant systems.
• Assist with monitoring raw material requirements for laboratory trials and production activities.
• Maintain accurate supporting documentation for purchases, stock movements and transfers.
• Follow up with internal departments and suppliers where required.

Personal & General Administrative Assistance

• Provide day-to-day administrative support to the R&D Chemist.
• Assist with scheduling, filing, documentation, correspondence and general organisation.
• Maintain organised electronic and physical records.
• Assist with reports, spreadsheets and other documentation.
• Perform other reasonable laboratory, R&D, production or administrative duties as required.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are looking for someone who is:

• Highly organised and detail-oriented.
• Accurate and methodical in their work.
• Comfortable working with numbers, systems and documentation.
• Interested in chemistry, manufacturing and product development.
• Willing to learn and comfortable working hands-on in a laboratory environment.
• Able to manage multiple tasks and changing priorities.
• Proactive and able to follow through on tasks without constant supervision.
• A strong communicator who works well across different departments.
• Responsible and understands the importance of confidentiality.
• A team player with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

The following would be advantageous:

• Matric / Grade 12.
• A diploma, certificate or studies in Chemistry, Chemical Technology, Laboratory Technology, Production, Administration or a related field would be advantageous.
• Previous laboratory, manufacturing, production administration, stock control or procurement experience would be beneficial.
• Good computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Experience working with ERP, stock, purchasing or production systems would be an advantage.
• Good written and spoken English.
• Strong numerical and record-keeping skills.

Recent graduates with an appropriate chemistry or laboratory-related qualification who demonstrate strong administrative ability are encouraged to apply.