Analytical Chemistry and Separation Technology Intern

Recruiter:

Signa Opportunity

Job Ref:

JHB000791/SZ

Date posted:

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Location:

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

SUMMARY:
Signa Opportunity is recruiting unemployed youth for quality workplace experience through the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative.

About the YES Initiative
The initiative was launched by the President in 2018 and is a partnership with the government and labour department to collectively devise a national plan to build economic pathways for South Africa’s youth by creating workplace opportunities for South African youth over a period of 12 months.

Position: Analytical Chemistry and Separation Technology Intern

Stipend: R5,500

Location: KZN (Pietermaritzburg)

POSITION INFO:
About the role
The ideal candidate will play a key role in developing and validating internal testing methods, with a focus on extraction and separation techniques. This position is perfect for someone with a strong theoretical background in analytical chemistry and or separation technology who is eager to apply their knowledge in a practical start-up setting.

Responsibilities

Assist in the development, optimization, and validation of new analytical methods for a variety of sample matrices.
Perform sample preparation using a range of extraction and separation techniques (e.g., solid-phase extraction (SPE), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), chromatography).
Operate and maintain the UV-Vis spectrophotometer.
Accurately record, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
Collaborate with our senior team to troubleshoot methodological issues and improve existing processes.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.

Minimum Requirements

South African Unemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 34.
Must not have participated on the YES programme before.
Matric.
Recently completed (or having submitted their written dissertation for) a Master of Science (MSc) MTech degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related field.
Bachelor of Honours (BHon) degree holders with relevant lab experience e.g. chemistry / biochemical practical assistant at the university or technicon will also be considered.
Strong theoretical and some practical knowledge of chromatographic techniques. and sample preparation and extraction methods.
Proficiency and accuracy in data reporting.
Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Please consider your application unsuccessful when you have not heard from the Signa Opportunity team within two weeks of submitting your application.

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