Job Description

We are looking to hire a Head of Laboratory Professional for one of our Clients based in Tanzania. Must have previous local experience of minimum 5 years. The relocation to Tanzania is mandatory.
Purpose: Build and lead ALS's technical backbone--ensure product quality and release, own new/optimized formulations (cost, performance, and claims), and ready the lab for ISO and customer audits.
Key responsibilities
? Quality leadership
? Own specifications, COAs, and batch release; run robust sampling plans (RM/IP/FG) and retains.
? Ensure method integrity for core tests: KV (D445), VI (D2270), FP (D92/D93), P.P. (D97), CCS (D5293), TBN/TAN (D2896/D664), Noack (D5800), Foaming (D892), D130; manage FTIR/ICP if available.
? Maintain instruments, calibrations, control charts; drive OOS/OOT investigations, NCR/CAPA; prevent recurrence.
? Build LIMS/traceability discipline; readiness for ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 (scope selection, SOPs, uncertainty).
? R&D / Formulation ownership
? Develop and optimize formulations for current and pipeline SKUs (e.g., SAE 40 API SF, 20W-50, 15W-40, hydraulic oils, gear oils, ATF) using the right base oil mix (GR I/II/III) and additive packages.
? Optimize treat rates for cost/performance, oxidation control, detergency/dispersancy, AW/EP, VI, pour point; run DoE/structured trials.
? Create master formulas, BOMs, and batch instructions; manage line flush/color/dye strategy to avoid cross-contamination.
? Build data packs for API/ACEA claim alignment (where applicable); manage first-article runs and field trials with Sales/Key customers.
? Technical governance & scale-up
? Lead tech transfers and NPI gates; coordinate with Production on line clearance, changeovers, and yield.
? Qualify suppliers (base oils/additives/packaging); set incoming QC protocols and vendor scorecards.
? Train operators/techs on sampling, test methods, data integrity; embed a zero-harm, zero-mix-up culture.
? Support regulatory & market requirements (e.g., TBS labeling/testing), customer audits, and complaint investigations.
Requirements
Must-have qualifications & experience
? M.Sc. Chemistry / Chemical Engineering (or B.Sc. with strong track record).
? 7-12 years in lubricants/petroleum lab leadership with hands-on ASTM methods and formulation using major additive systems.
? Proven experience taking a formulation from bench ? pilot ? line, with COA/release accountability.
Skills
? Strong formulation chemistry (base stock selection, VIIs, PPDs, AW/EP, detergents/dispersants, antioxidants, friction modifiers).
? Statistics & problem solving (control charts, MSA/GR&R, DoE, 5-Why/Fishbone).
? SOP writing, LIMS/ERP literacy, crisp technical reports; cross-functional influence.
Nice-to-have
? ISO 17025 setup/expansion; FTIR/ICP proficiency; cost-optimization projects; French/Swahili.
Benefits

• Housing
• Transportation
• Food
• Visa
• Air Ticket

Skills Required