Team Leader - Sample Preparation

WHAT IS ON OFFER 

Alfred H Knight has an exciting opportunity for a Team Leader Sample Preparation to join the team in Durban. The position is responsible for the supervision of the sample preparation while on shift, the Team Leader will ensure that the department runs smoothly and that all standards are followed by the staff on shift and to ensure client instructions are followed correctly. The Team Leader will also be involved in the training and development of the Sample Preparers. 

ABOUT US

Alfred H Knight is a totally independent, family owned business spanning five generations. A global network of strategically placed offices and laboratories enable global trade by providing independent inspection, analysis and consultancy services to the metals and minerals, solid fuels and agriculture industries.

We have honed and carefully crafted our reputation. Delivering knowledge and professionalism in all aspects of weighing, sampling and analysis. We thrive by continuing to re-invest in our facilities, technology and people. Click here to find out more about AHK. 

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES

To be successful at Alfred H Knight the incumbent will need to display the following:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND WORK EXPERIENCE

Responsibilities

Schedule work flow through the department so that client deadlines are met.

Helps manage the process of sample preparation work flow as the samples arrive in the sample preparation facility;

Maintains shift production levels and ensures sample preparation work meets required turnaround time;

Determines when client sample processing instructions are missing, incomplete or ambiguous- accomplishes this by close liaison with layout personnel and the work order entry group;

Maintains close liaison with Site foreman and Supervisors and sample prep staff to ensure the smooth delivery of our services to clients;

Identifies and resolves internal and external problems when they arise;

Responsible for training of sample preparation staff and monitoring performance;

Organizes employee scheduling and shift work in consultation with the Site Foreman;

Helps with employee performance evaluations, discipline and other issues as they arise in consultation with the Site foreman and Inspectors;

Use correct methods in accordance with the established procedures and schedules while ensuring quality;

Observe established safety regulations and comply with all AHK health and safety policies and procedures;

Monitor and Maintain work area ensuring spills are immediately cleaned; disposal is handled according to sample prep procedures including any special requirements for handling international soils.

Establish maintenance regimes both routine and non-routine to ensure all equipment is in a safe and efficient operating state and organize appropriate service providers when necessary.

Setting, ordering and maintaining appropriate inventories of supplies and parts to ensure production goals are met

Keep all records and notebooks in good order including work order and equipment maintenance logs.

May be assigned and coordinate special or ad hoc projects as needed

Required Competencies

Ability to multi task and prioritize work flow

Strong analytical and mechanical skills

A willingness to learn new analytical tests, equipment and procedures

Critical thinking and ability to troubleshoot problems in a timely manner

Must be able to read, understand and follow work instructions in a safe, accurate and timely manner and answer related questions from direct reports.

Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to work well with others & independently with little direct supervision.

Time management skills and a strong attention to detail.

Ability to work under pressure.

Able to work extended hours from time to time.

Required Qualifications

Grade 12 (with Maths and Science)

Required work experience

Minimum 3 years work experience in a commercial minerals’ laboratory or minerals sample preparation required;

Microsoft excel, word experience 

Proven leadership abilities and experience leading teams greater than 5 people

Experience performing all related sample prep procedures with a theoretical understanding of the methodology.

BENEFITS

We are offering an excellent opportunity with a salary and benefits package to match

Alfred H Knight is committed to creating a diverse & inclusive environment and hence welcomes applications from all sections of the community in line with our Employment Equity Plan.

Interested applicants should apply using this link  . If you have not received a response to your application within 2 weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful

Closing date: 20 February 2026