Relief Blood Bank Technologist – South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
- Company: South African National Blood Service (SANBS)
- Position: Relief Blood Bank Technologist
- Business Unit: Universitas
- Location: Bloemfontein, Free State
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Salary: R457,896.00 per annum
- Closing Date: 05 August 2026
- Listing Reference: sanbs_003382
Job Overview
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is recruiting a Relief Blood Bank Technologist to join its Universitas Blood Bank in Bloemfontein. The successful candidate will perform specialised laboratory testing related to blood transfusion services, verify laboratory results, maintain quality standards, and support the delivery of safe and reliable blood products.
This role is ideal for a qualified HPCSA-registered Medical Technologist (Blood Transfusion) who is passionate about laboratory excellence and patient safety.
About SANBS
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is a leading healthcare organisation responsible for collecting, testing, processing, and distributing safe blood and blood products throughout South Africa. SANBS is committed to quality, innovation, and ensuring the highest standards of transfusion medicine to support healthcare facilities nationwide.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Operational Functions
- Performing routine blood bank testing and laboratory procedures.
- Conducting compatibility testing for blood transfusions.
- Performing postnatal investigations.
- Conducting preliminary transfusion reaction investigations.
- Verifying and checking laboratory results completed by:
- Registered Blood Bank Technicians.
- Registered Trainee Technicians.
- Registered Student Technologists.
Specialist Technical Functions
- Performing specialised blood transfusion laboratory testing.
- Applying blood grouping techniques and laboratory procedures accurately.
- Maintaining compliance with SANBS laboratory standards.
Quality and Risk Management
- Ensuring laboratory quality assurance procedures are followed.
- Supporting quality improvement initiatives.
- Identifying and managing laboratory risks.
Laboratory Maintenance
- Maintaining laboratory equipment and instruments.
- Ensuring equipment is serviced and functioning correctly.
- Supporting laboratory operational readiness.
Customer Service
- Building positive relationships with healthcare professionals and internal stakeholders.
- Providing professional laboratory support services.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Medical Technologist (Blood Transfusion).
- Relevant experience required for HPCSA registration as a Medical Technologist (Blood Transfusion).
Special Requirements
The successful candidate must be willing to:
- Work overtime when required.
- Work night shifts and weekends according to the roster.
- Travel locally and nationally on occasion.
Applicants should also have:
- Good physical health and mobility.
- Normal colour vision (applicants may not be colour blind).
- Good eyesight.
- Strong attention to detail.
Required Skills and Competencies
The ideal candidate should possess:
Cognitive Skills
- Analytical thinking.
- Attention to detail.
- Problem-solving ability.
- Sound judgement and decision-making.
Personal Attributes
- High ethical standards.
- Commitment to continuous professional development.
- Flexibility and adaptability.
- Strong focus on excellence.
- Passion for healthcare and blood transfusion services.
Interpersonal Skills
- Excellent customer service.
- Strong relationship-building skills.
- Effective communication.
- Ability to work in diverse teams.
- Teamwork and knowledge sharing.
Professional and Technical Skills
- Laboratory testing expertise.
- Blood grouping knowledge and skills.
- System competency.
- Strong administrative skills.
- Thorough understanding of blood transfusion laboratory practices.