South African National Blood Service

Introduction

Are you passionate about working in a health and science environment? The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is offering a permanent opportunity for a General Laboratory Assistant to join their blood bank team in Soweto. This role plays a critical part in supporting operational efficiency by ensuring that hampers are prepared and collected timeously, waste is managed according to health standards, and daily lab cleanliness is maintained.

Key Responsibilities

🧪 Hamper & Stock Management

Prepare and collect blood return bag (BRB) hampers as per SOPs and schedules.
Collect used and unused hampers from wards and designated drop-off points.
Inspect hampers for broken seals and report any compromised contents.
Sort and pack blood product stock into appropriate storage (fridge, freezer, platelet agitator) by expiry date.
Perform daily stock checks, ensuring proper rotation and organization.

♻️ Biohazardous Waste Disposal

Follow SOPs for correct disposal of medical waste.
Use the CS Tracker system to label and track all disposal containers.
Capture waste data and maintain detailed disposal documentation for traceability.
Coordinate waste collection with approved disposal providers.
Assist in weighing and recording waste to ensure compliance.

🧼 Laboratory Cleaning & Equipment Maintenance

Prepare disinfectant solutions and replenish test tubes regularly.
Decontaminate, clean, and dry lab tools and areas, including blood hampers, racks, trays, and sinks.
Assist with cleaning water baths, centrifuge buckets, and refrigerators as per the cleaning schedule.
Support clean-up of blood spills and ensure all areas remain hygienic and compliant with SHEQ standards.

✅ Compliance & Documentation

Maintain adherence to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and SHEQ requirements.
Assist with the investigation and documentation of non-conformances or deviations.
Participate in continuous health and safety legislative compliance efforts.

🔄 General Laboratory Support

Complete the Laboratory Assistant course as per the expected timeframe.
Perform any additional duties as required by supervisors or senior staff.

Minimum Requirements

🎓 Education

Grade 12 (Matric) with Mathematics and at least one Science subject

💻 Skills & Knowledge

Basic computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, Outlook)
No prior experience required (ideal for entry-level or school leavers with a science interest)
Understanding of hygiene protocols and willingness to handle biohazardous material

What Makes You a Great Fit

Strong attention to detail and cleanliness
Ability to follow procedures and maintain compliance
Physically fit and able to manage lab cleaning tasks
Self-motivated and dependable in a structured lab environment

Why Join SANBS?

As a nationally recognized organization that plays a crucial role in saving lives, SANBS offers:

A supportive and structured environment for learning
Opportunities to grow within the healthcare and biotechnology space
A purpose-driven role where your efforts directly impact the health sector

Find similar jobs at:
👉 https://careerjunctionza.co.za/jobs/

💡 CV Tips for General Laboratory Assistant Applicants

✅ Highlight Relevant Subjects: If you’re fresh out of school, emphasize subjects like Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Maths.

✅ Show Willingness to Learn: Mention your eagerness to work in a healthcare or laboratory setting and any exposure (even school projects) to lab work.

✅ Detail Your Hygiene Awareness: In a lab environment, cleanliness is crucial. Show your understanding of cleanliness and safe practices.

✅ Include Tech Skills: Basic MS Office knowledge is a plus, so be sure to include your computer proficiency.

✅ Focus on Soft Skills: Reliability, attention to detail, and following procedures are key in lab roles—make these visible on your CV.

🔗 Company Website:
https://sanbs.org.za

To apply for this job please visit sanbs.ci.hr.