Section Head – Food Instrumentation & Residue Analysis.

Job Description:

• Lead and oversee the Residue Analysis & Instrumentation section of the laboratory.
• Plan, manage, and review residue analysis of pesticides, antibiotics, veterinary drugs, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and other contaminants in food samples.
• Operate, supervise, and maintain advanced analytical instruments, including:
o LC-MS/MS
o GC-MS/MS
o ICP-MS / ICP-OES
o HPLC, GC, AAS, UV-Vis, FTIR
• Ensure compliance with NABL (ISO/IEC 17025:2017), FSSAI guidelines, Codex, and BIS standards.
• Perform and supervise method validation, verification, calibration, and measurement of uncertainty.
• Review and authorize test reports as an Authorized Signatory.
• Coordinate with QA/QC and Quality Head for audits, CAPA, and proficiency testing programs.
• Guide, train, and mentor analysts/technicians in advanced instrumental methods.
• Ensure proper maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance qualification of instruments.
• Liaise with clients for technical discussions, result interpretation, and regulatory queries.
• Prepare for and represent the section during NABL and FSSAI audits/inspections.
• Maintain compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), safety, and documentation protocols.
Qualifications & Skills:
• Master’s / Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Food Technology, Biotechnology, or related sciences.
• Minimum 8–12 years of hands-on experience in instrument-based food analysis, with strong exposure to residue testing.
• Must have excellent practical knowledge of LC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, ICP-MS, and related advanced instruments.
• Proven expertise in method validation, uncertainty measurement, and regulatory compliance.
• FSSAI Food Analyst Exam qualified (mandatory or highly preferred).
• Eligible / experienced as Authorized Signatory in an NABL-accredited laboratory.
• Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills for client interaction and technical reporting.
• Proficiency in LIMS and laboratory documentation practices preferred.