Head of Department - Geochemistry

WHAT IS ON OFFER

Alfred H Knight has an exciting opportunity for a Head Of Department-Geochemistry to join our team in Zambia. In this role, you will be responsible for the day to day operations of both the Geochemistry laboratory as well as its sample preparation section, ensuring efficiency and quality of service befitting a world class organisation.

You will oversee end-to-end laboratory operations from initial sample receipt and preparation through to wet chemistry analysis, QA/QC review, and final reporting. You will ensure full compliance with the ISO 17025:2017 standard and maintain the company’s Quality Management System while validating that all analytical methods remain fit for purpose. A key focus will be driving operational and financial efficiency: managing departmental budgets, maintaining robust stock inventories and optimizing equipment usage. Additionally, you will schedule daily workloads to meet client deadlines, train and equip your team for peak performance, and maintain clear, proactive communication across all internal departments and external clients.

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 you will need to display the following:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND WORK EXPERIENCE

Required Competencies

• Excellent communication skills with superiors and subordinates
• Good literacy and computer/LIMS skills
• Very good hands-on analytical skills
• Customer service oriented
• Ability to work effectively under operational pressure
• High level of integrity and professional accountability
• Strong leadership skills
• Practical Knowledge of ISO 17025 and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

Required Work Experience

• Strong, demonstrable experience in classical analytical chemistry techniques, including Fire Assay, with a proven commitment to analytical quality, accuracy, precision, and meticulous attention to detail
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a testing Laboratory, preferably in a Geochemistry Lab setup

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry or related Chemical Sciences
• Formal training in ISO 17025 will be an added advantage

BENEFITS

We are offering an excellent opportunity with a salary and benefits package to match including pension, life assurance and an employee assistance programme.

If you are invited to interview, please let us know if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to the recruitment process that will enable you to perform to the best of your ability.

Alfred H Knight is committed to creating a diverse & inclusive environment and hence welcomes applications from all sections of the community.