Job Opportunity: General Laboratory Assistant (Blood Bank)

Company: South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Job Type: Full-Time

About SANBS

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is a non-profit organization that provides essential, world-class blood services across South Africa. We are dedicated to saving lives and maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence.

Role Introduction

We are looking for a General Laboratory Assistant to join our Blood Bank team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing and collecting blood hampers, managing bio-hazardous waste, and ensuring the laboratory remains clean and organized according to safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities

1. Blood Hamper and Stock Management

• Prepare and collect blood hampers according to official schedules.
• Collect empty hampers from hospital wards and designated drop-off points.
• Check hampers for unused products and report any broken seals to supervisors.
• Pack new blood stocks into refrigerators, freezers, or platelet agitators based on their expiry dates.
• Perform daily stock counts to ensure blood units are organized correctly.

2. Waste Disposal

• Handle and dispose of medical waste following strict safety procedures.
• Label and scan waste containers using the tracking system.
• Prepare the necessary documentation for waste removal and transportation.
• Coordinate with waste disposal companies to ensure safe removal and accurate weighing of materials.
• Discard outdated laboratory samples daily.

3. Daily Laboratory Maintenance

• Clean and decontaminate laboratory equipment, including water baths, centrifuges, and blood hampers.
• Prepare disinfectant solutions and replenish test tubes.
• Clean and disinfect sinks, basins, and work areas daily.
• Defrost and clean refrigerators and freezers on a regular schedule.
• Assist with cleaning up blood spills immediately and safely.

4. Compliance and General Support

• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety regulations (SHEQ).
• Assist supervisors with gathering information to resolve errors or customer complaints.
• Complete the required Laboratory Assistant training course within the set timeframe.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: Grade 12 (Matric) with Mathematics and at least one Science subject.
• Experience: No previous experience is required; entry-level candidates are welcome.
• Skills: Basic computer literacy, including experience with MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Traits: Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety and cleanliness.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements and are interested in this position, please submit your application through the SANBS careers portal. Ensure your CV highlights your educational qualifications and any relevant skills.

Application Deadline: 16 February 2026