Instrumentation head (Food) & Residue Analysis

Job Description:

The Section Head for Food Instrumentation & Residue Analysis will be responsible for managing
advanced instrument-based testing operations for food and agricultural products, with a focus on
pesticide residues, heavy metals, toxins, and other contaminants. The role demands strong technical
expertise in modern analytical instruments, proven leadership in NABL-accredited laboratories, and
eligibility as an Authorized Signatory. A candidate qualified in the FSSAI Food Analyst Exam will be
preferred.
Key Responsibilities:
 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.

Key Competencies:
 Advanced Instrumentation Expertise
 NABL & FSSAI Regulatory Knowledge
 Authorized Signatory Responsibility
 Leadership & Team Development
 Precision, Accuracy & Analytical Thinking
 Client & Audit Handling