Bench Lead | Histology | Westridge

What You Will Do

• Coordinate and oversee the daily activities, workflow, and operational performance of a designated Histology bench or laboratory section.
• Ensure efficient specimen processing and timely result delivery to consistently meet turnaround time TAT requirements.
• Maintain compliance with accreditation standards, quality management systems, and laboratory procedures.
• Identify opportunities to improve bench processes and collaborate with the Team Lead or Technical Lead to enhance service quality, efficiency, and cost effectiveness.
• Perform bench-related testing and technical duties to support operational demands and maintain productivity.
• Partner with specialists and relevant stakeholders on validations, verifications, reagent assessments, instrument evaluations, and the implementation of new assays.
• Monitor laboratory consumables, reagents, instrumentation, and testing costs to support effective resource utilisation and cost management.
• Promote knowledge sharing, technical excellence, and continuous learning within the team.
• Coordinate training activities, provide mentoring, and support the ongoing development of laboratory staff.
• Monitor performance within the bench area and provide meaningful feedback and insights to support staff development and operational effectiveness.
• Support the Team Lead or Technical Lead in fostering a positive, collaborative, and high-performing laboratory culture.

Qualifications

• Medical Technologist, Medical Technician SMLTSA, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or Medical Scientist BSc Hons, MSc, or PhD qualification.
• Current HPCSA registration as a Medical Technologist, Medical Technician, Medical Laboratory Scientist or Medical Scientist in Histology.
• Strong leadership potential with the ability to guide and influence others, even without a formal management qualification.

Experience

• 3 - 5 years' experience as a Medical Technologist, Medical Technician, Medical Laboratory Scientist, or Medical Scientist within a pathology laboratory environment.
• Proven experience processing specimens in accordance with established laboratory standards, quality requirements, and operational procedures.
• Experience working within a microbiology laboratory environment will be advantageous.

Knowledge & Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Outlook.
• Knowledge of HPCSA regulations and compliance requirements.
• General understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety OHS Act.
• Knowledge of laboratory accreditation standards, quality management systems QMS, and associated processes.
• Understanding of validation and verification methodologies.
• Advanced knowledge of Histology laboratory protocols, procedures, instrumentation, and testing practices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively in English.
• Excellent organisational and coordination skills with the ability to manage workflow, prioritise tasks, and allocate resources effectively.
• Understanding of people management principles, including training, coaching, motivating, and supporting employee development.
• Proven ability to influence, guide, and support teams without direct managerial authority.
• Basic financial management awareness, including cost control, inventory management, and resource optimisation.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and continuous improvement mindset.