About Company
ZISCOSTEEL, the iconic Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company, stands as a cornerstone of national industrial heritage and future potential. Located in Redcliff, Midlands Province, ZISCOSTEEL has historically been a pivotal player in the region’s economic landscape, renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality steel products for domestic use and export. As we embark on a crucial journey of revitalisation and modernisation, investing in cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, we are seeking dedicated professionals to join our team and contribute to re-establishing ZISCOSTEEL as a leader in steel manufacturing in Africa. Our vision is rooted in innovation, environmental stewardship, and fostering a highly skilled workforce that drives national economic development and contributes meaningfully to the community. Joining ZISCOSTEEL means becoming part of a rich legacy, contributing to Zimbabwe’s industrial resurgence, and playing a role in shaping its future. We pride ourselves on a culture of excellence, uncompromising safety standards, and continuous improvement, providing an environment where talent can thrive and make a tangible impact.
Job Description
Are you a meticulous and dedicated individual with a passion for precision and quality control, ready to make a significant impact on national industry? ZISCOSTEEL is looking for an experienced and highly motivated Laboratory Technician to join our analytical team in Redcliff. In this critical role, you will be instrumental in ensuring the quality and integrity of our steel production processes through rigorous material analysis and testing at various stages of production. You will be responsible for performing a comprehensive variety of chemical, physical, and mechanical tests on incoming raw materials, in-process samples (such as molten metal and slag), and outgoing finished steel products. Your work will directly contribute to upholding ZISCOSTEEL’s high quality standards and ensuring compliance with national and international specifications. This position demands a keen eye for detail, strong analytical capabilities, and an unwavering commitment to maintaining accurate records and adhering to stringent safety and environmental protocols. You will be expected to operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on sophisticated laboratory equipment, troubleshoot minor technical issues, and actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory. Your expertise will provide essential, timely data to our production teams, enabling informed decisions for process adjustments and comprehensive quality assurance. This is an exciting and challenging opportunity to apply your technical skills, grow your expertise within a dynamic and rewarding industrial environment, and contribute directly to the revitalization of a nationally significant industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct routine and non-routine chemical, physical, and mechanical tests on raw materials, in-process samples (e.g., slag, metal), and finished steel products.
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain various laboratory instruments and equipment, including spectrographs, hardness testers, tensile machines, and microscopes.
- Prepare samples for analysis according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety guidelines.
- Accurately record, interpret, and report test results in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or designated logbooks.
- Monitor and control laboratory supply inventory, ensuring adequate stock levels for continuous operations.
- Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations and laboratory quality management systems (e.g., ISO standards).
- Identify and report any deviations, anomalies, or out-of-specification results promptly to supervisors.
- Perform basic troubleshooting and minor repairs on laboratory equipment.
- Participate in inter-laboratory proficiency testing programs and internal audits.
- Assist in the development and validation of new testing methods and procedures, contributing to process optimization.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in a laboratory setting, preferably within heavy industry, metallurgy, or a related field.
- Proficiency in operating and maintaining standard laboratory equipment.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent data recording and reporting abilities, including experience with LIMS or similar systems.
- Solid understanding of laboratory safety procedures and quality control principles.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced industrial environment.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Competency in basic computer applications (MS Office Suite).
Preferred Qualifications
- Higher National Diploma (HND) or Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Analytical Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience with spectroscopic analysis techniques (e.g., Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF)).
- Knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation standards.
- Previous experience in a steel manufacturing or mining laboratory.
- Certifications in quality control or specific analytical techniques.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Contribution to a nationally significant industry.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Pension scheme.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume and cover letter clearly outline your relevant experience and qualifications for this role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.