Laboratory Assistant Job Opportunity – No Experience Required

AFGRI is inviting applications for the position of Laboratory Assistant at its Isando facility. This permanent opportunity is ideal for individuals who have completed Matric and are looking to begin a career in laboratory operations. Previous work experience is not required, as successful candidates will receive the necessary training to perform the role effectively.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical laboratory experience while working in a professional environment that supports quality standards, safety procedures, and continuous learning. Candidates with strong attention to detail, good organizational skills, and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.

Position: Laboratory Assistant
Reference Number: AO-2423
Location: Isando, Gauteng, South Africa
Job Type: Permanent
Work Level: Skilled
Salary: Market Related
Employment Equity Position: Yes
Closing Date: 10 August 2026

About the Laboratory Assistant Position

The Laboratory Assistant plays an important role in supporting laboratory operations by preparing samples for analysis, maintaining laboratory equipment and storage areas, and ensuring that quality and safety procedures are followed at all times.

The successful candidate will assist laboratory personnel by carrying out routine preparation tasks, maintaining sample storage areas, managing waste, cleaning laboratory utensils, and operating laboratory equipment after receiving appropriate training.

Since no previous experience is required, this opportunity is suitable for recent Matric graduates or job seekers looking to build a long-term career in laboratory services, agriculture, food testing, or scientific support services.

Main Responsibilities

The Laboratory Assistant will be responsible for a variety of daily laboratory duties, including:

• Preparing samples for laboratory analysis.
• Splitting, milling, and drying samples accurately.
• Scanning routine samples using Near Infrared (NIR) instruments.
• Performing basic laboratory analytical procedures such as moisture determination.
• Maintaining laboratory storage areas.
• Looking after sample retention stores.
• Managing the cold room used for sample storage.
• Ensuring laboratory equipment is kept clean and in good working condition.
• Washing laboratory glassware and plastic containers promptly.
• Supporting waste management procedures within the laboratory.
• Maintaining high standards of housekeeping throughout the laboratory.
• Following all laboratory quality assurance procedures.
• Complying with laboratory health and safety requirements.
• Completing additional duties as assigned from time to time.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants should meet the following minimum requirements before applying:

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• No previous work experience is required.
• Willingness to undergo workplace training.
• Ability to follow instructions carefully.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good time management skills.
• Reliable and responsible attitude.

Individuals who recently completed school and are looking for their first permanent employment opportunity are encouraged to submit an application.

Training Provided

One of the biggest advantages of this opportunity is that prior laboratory experience is not required.

Successful applicants will receive training on laboratory procedures and equipment, including:

• Sample preparation processes.
• Operating milling equipment.
• Using drying ovens.
• Operating NIR scanning instruments.
• Safe handling of laboratory samples.
• Quality control procedures.
• Laboratory housekeeping.
• Waste management.
• Equipment care and maintenance.
• Workplace safety practices.

This structured training allows entry-level candidates to gain valuable technical skills while working in a professional laboratory environment.

Technical Skills Required

Although previous experience is not required, applicants should possess or be willing to develop the following technical abilities:

• Ability to operate laboratory mills.
• Ability to operate drying ovens.
• Good accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills.
• Planning and organizational skills.
• Good time management.
• Ability to learn new systems and procedures quickly.
• Basic problem-solving skills.

Personal Attributes

The ideal Laboratory Assistant should demonstrate the following qualities:

• Self-motivated.
• Hardworking.
• Reliable.
• Assertive when necessary.
• Diligent in completing assigned tasks.
• Innovative and willing to learn.
• Positive attitude.
• Team player.
• Responsible and dependable.
• Committed to maintaining quality standards.

These personal qualities are important because laboratory work requires consistency, accuracy, and careful attention to procedures.

Daily Working Environment

The successful candidate will work in a laboratory environment where precision and cleanliness are essential.

Daily duties may involve:

• Preparing laboratory samples.
• Operating laboratory machinery.
• Standing for extended periods.
• Cleaning laboratory workspaces.
• Washing laboratory equipment.
• Recording sample information.
• Moving samples between storage areas.
• Maintaining laboratory organization.
• Following safety procedures.
• Supporting laboratory technicians with routine work.

Every task contributes to producing accurate laboratory results and maintaining an efficient workplace.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This vacancy offers several advantages for entry-level job seekers.

Benefits include:

• No previous experience required.
• Full workplace training provided.
• Permanent employment opportunity.
• Market-related salary.
• Opportunity to develop laboratory skills.
• Exposure to professional laboratory operations.
• Career development opportunities.
• Experience with laboratory equipment.
• Stable working environment.
• Opportunity to work for a well-known agricultural company.

For many applicants, this position can serve as the first step toward a long-term career in laboratory science, agriculture, food testing, quality assurance, or manufacturing.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants can improve their chances by ensuring that:

• The CV is updated.
• Contact details are correct.
• Educational qualifications are included.
• Copies of required documents are clear and readable.
• Employment history is accurate if applicable.
• The reference number is used correctly where required.
• The application is submitted before the closing date.

Attention to detail during the application process demonstrates professionalism and can create a positive first impression.

Employment Equity

The appointment process will be conducted in accordance with AFGRI’s Employment Equity Policy.

Suitably qualified candidates from designated groups are encouraged to apply, subject to the requirements of the position and applicable employment legislation.

Protection of Personal Information

Applicants should be aware that personal information submitted during the recruitment process will be processed in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), Act 4 of 2013.

Information collected during recruitment is handled for employment-related purposes, and applicants are encouraged to review the HR Processing Notice available on the AFGRI Group website before submitting an application.

Important Information

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted during the recruitment process.

Applicants who do not receive communication within 30 days after the closing date may consider their application unsuccessful.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection or appointment.

Job Summary

How to Apply

Interested applicants who meet the minimum requirements should submit their application before the 10 August 2026 closing date. Ensure that all required information is completed accurately and that supporting documents are included where requested. Early applications are recommended to avoid missing the deadline.

Apply Here: Laboratory Assistant 2026