Media Preparation Production Lead

SUMMARY:

A well-established commercial laboratory is seeking a Media Preparation Production Lead to ensure that all tissue culture media and related supplies are prepared and delivered to the various lab units on time and according to the production plan. The role includes overseeing the Media Prep production plan, supervising the Media Prep Team day-to-day, preparing media and stocks, managing inventory, maintaining equipment, and supporting the development and implementation of Quality Control (QC) processes, including environmental monitoring.

POSITION INFO:

Minimum requirements for the role:

• Must have a Degree or Diploma in Microbiology, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, or a related field, with advanced training or courses in these areas
• Proven supervisory or mentoring experience with demonstrated leadership skills
• High attention to detail and the ability to observe small deviations while following detailed protocols
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in both English and Afrikaans, with the ability to read and follow detailed instructions
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including lifting up to 30kg, working with chemicals, operating around heat-generating equipment, and standing/sitting for extended periods

• Collaborating with the Tissue Culture Lab Team to plan and execute activities that ensure timely and accurate delivery of required TC culture media and supplies.
• Developing and managing the Media Master Plan to ensure adequate resources (supplies, equipment, and labour) are available to meet production targets and deliverables.
• Training, supervising, and providing ongoing feedback to Media Prep and Wash Prep team members on equipment use, media preparation protocols, and adherence to SOPs.
• Overseeing the day-to-day activities of the Media Prep and Washroom team to ensure media and supplies are prepared to the required quality standards and delivered on time.
• Preparing and dispensing various batches and types of media from basic chemical components while maintaining aseptic conditions.
• Managing laboratory supplies inventory, including ordering, tracking, and processing of chemicals, consumables, glassware, and other materials.
• Performing routine maintenance and QC procedures on Media Prep equipment (e.g., water treatment systems, autoclaves, balances, pH probes) and coordinating with service providers when required.
• Conducting environmental contamination monitoring and assisting in the development and implementation of QC protocols for media and supplies.
• Maintaining accurate records of production, quality control, media inventories, delivery reports, and equipment logs, and providing monthly reports to management.
• Ensuring all Media Prep and Washroom areas are kept organised, clean, and compliant with safety standards, while promoting a culture of respect, teamwork, and confidentiality.