Senior Materials Tester

The Senior Materials Tester assists the Supervisor/Laboratory Manager with all materials testing tasks, both on-site and in the commercial laboratory. This role involves performing tests on various materials, maintaining equipment, ensuring a clean and organized laboratory environment, and adhering to quality and safety standards. The Senior Materials Tester also supervises junior testers and manages field and laboratory work, including sampling, calculations, and testing methods.

Key Responsibilities:

• Materials Testing:
  • Perform and take responsibility for testing across all laboratory divisions including soils, asphalt, seals, concrete, and aggregates.
  • Carry out bench calculations as required for testing procedures.
  • Complete all field and laboratory work accurately, including sampling, test methods, and calculations.
• Supervision & Team Management:
  • Supervise and oversee testing procedures to ensure competency and adherence to prescribed methods.
  • Ensure discipline and proper conduct within the assigned department.
• Laboratory Maintenance & Cleanliness:
  • Clean and maintain laboratory equipment on a regular basis.
  • Ensure the laboratory and work areas are clean, including the removal of consumables and waste after tasks or at the end of the day.
• Compliance & Reporting:
  • Adhere to all quality and safety requirements as per the SGS management system.
  • Report any deviations, irregularities, or non-conformances orally.
  • Complete timesheets accurately on a daily basis.
• Additional Tasks:
  • Perform any other reasonable tasks as assigned by the authorized site supervisor, laboratory manager, or regional manager.

Qualifications:

• Grade 12 / NQF4 or additional relevant experience (three years of experience for each year of schooling below Grade 12).
• Recognition of Prior Learning may be considered for qualification.
• Proficiency in English (read, write, speak).
• Computer literacy in Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Competence with SANS and THM 1 test methods is required.

Skills & Experience:

• Technical Skills:
  • Experience with sampling and preparation.
  • Competent in conducting tests in all laboratory divisions.
  • Ability to perform calculations related to tests.
• Fieldwork Experience:
  • Experience in densities, layer/stockpile sampling, concrete cube handling, DCP, Ring and Ball tests, Sand Patch tests, on-site viscosity tests, and sampling of asphalt and bitumen.
• Additional Experience:
  • Administrative experience is advantageous.
  • Experience in quality control and laboratory activities under supervision.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Physically able and willing to work with, move, and pick up samples as required.