Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Mantsha Choeu

Technical Manager
Pretoria

Summary

Experienced Laboratory Manager with a strong background in civil engineering from SANRAL projects, currently serving as a Technical Manager for a commercial laboratory. Proficient in road construction material laboratory testing following industry standards such as TMH1, SANS, and TGI. Holds a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering and pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Business Management. Completed courses in ISO/IEC 17025:2005 Laboratory system training, Management Development Programme, and Advanced Project Management. Working towards registration with ECSA as a professional technician and an active member of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering. Excellent communication and leadership skills to ensure task completion and client satisfaction. Collaborative problem solver dedicated to sustainability and innovation in the built environment.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience
4007
4007
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Language

Work History

TECHNICAL MANAGER

SOILLAB
Pretoria
06.2017 - Current
  • Managing monthly financial performance targets including: - invoicing, quotation, WIP and cost control
  • Managing all laboratory and technical staff whilst providing technical direction to the lab
  • Assisting clients on technical basis as well as implementing quality control and testing procedures
  • Assisting the GM and Sites Manager with technical support as well as trials with clients
  • Serve as a technical signatory for all relevant method in the laboratory
  • Incorporating new test methods and equipment and determine if it is suitable for use
  • Overseeing quality control on all products and ensuring conformance to standard procedures
  • Continuous professional development on testing in the field of civil engineering industry
  • Co-ordinate reporting of test results and responsible for final checking of test results
  • Selecting and training staff in research and analyses, laboratory procedures as well as the use of equipment
  • Reviewing quality control data, authorizing the release of laboratory reports and preparing proficiency test reports for senior management
  • Assist the Quality manager in solving findings and applying corrective actions
  • Checking and signing all verification of equipment in the laboratory
  • Ensure compliance to the quality system as required by ISO 17025 Standard
  • Main Lab: Head office
  • Developed suggestions for technical process improvements to optimize resources.
  • Developed technical strategies to align with business objectives, driving growth and innovation within the organization.
  • Built trusted relationships with stakeholders through clear communication and collaborative problem-solving efforts.
  • Mentored junior staff members, fostering a supportive environment and promoting professional development.
  • Optimized team performance by establishing clear roles, responsibilities, expectations in accordance with best practices.
  • Managed budgets and resources effectively, optimizing resource allocation to maximize project outcomes.
  • Successfully managed multiple high-stakes projects concurrently while adhering to strict timelines and budget constraints.
  • Managed implementation of new technological improvements resulting in increased efficiency.
  • Evaluated customer impact risk, reputation risk and regulatory risk.
  • Enhanced team productivity by implementing agile project management methodologies and streamlining workflows.
  • Authored best practices documentation for use in new personnel onboarding processes.
  • Prepared reports and schedules with accuracy.

LAB MANAGER

SOILLAB
Pretoria
09.2008 - 05.2017
  • Interviewed, hired and trained lab technicians to perform experiments and analyze results.
  • Set and oversaw quality assurance guidelines for laboratory work.
  • Maintained compliance with regulatory bodies (SANAS) by updating documentation and staying current on industry regulations.
  • Analyzed laboratory performance metrics regularly to identify areas requiring process improvements or additional training for staff members.
  • Established and maintained quality control standards, contributing to accurate test results and reliable data collection.
  • Trained and supervised a team of technicians, fostering an environment of collaboration and continuous improvement.
  • Kept laboratory in compliance with applicable guidelines and laws.
  • Kept equipment maintained, facility clean, and organized and inventory stocked to maximize performance.
  • Successfully managed budgets and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.

Senior Laboratory Technician

Department of public transport, roads and works (GAUTRANS)
Pretoria
07.2006 - 08.2008
  • Section head of Asphalt, Aggregate & Concrete department
  • Ensuring that the contractor workmanship always complies with the technical specification
  • Conduct materials test analysis
  • Inspect project site and evaluate contractor’s work
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Increased accuracy in test results by implementing rigorous quality control measures and documentation protocols.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot complex technical issues and identify areas for improvement in laboratory procedures.
  • Conducted comprehensive training sessions for junior technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
  • Ensured adherence to regulatory guidelines and industry best practices by monitoring the lab''s performance regularly and implementing corrective actions as required.
  • Enhanced laboratory efficiency by streamlining sample processing and data analysis procedures.
  • Improved turnaround times on sample analyses by refining processes based on customer feedback effectively.
  • Maximized equipment performance through regular inspections, maintenance schedules, and software updates as needed.

Chemical Engineering Intern

Lafarge Southern Africa: Quality department
Johannesburg
01.2005 - 12.2006
  • Co-ordination of projects relating to cement plants with regard to proper sample preparation, sample testing and analyzing test results
  • Compiling of technical reports for plant related projects
  • Co-ordination of other programs relating to Lafarge Southeast Africa cement plants; comparison of Compressive strength measuring equipment
  • Collaborated with a team to design and implement innovative chemical engineering solutions, leading to improved product performance.
  • Implemented quality control measures, improving product consistency and customer satisfaction.
  • Conducted experiments for the development of new products, resulting in successful prototypes.
  • Performed routine maintenance on lab equipment to ensure accurate results during testing procedures.
  • Developed technical reports on experimental findings for presentation to internal stakeholders, facilitating informed decision-making processes.
  • Adhered strictly all applicable safety regulations within work environment at all times, promoting a culture focused on safety and risk prevention.
  • Adhered to various Safety Management Protocol standards.
  • Prepared standard operating procedures (SOPs) documents for incoming personnel.

Laboratory Technician

Lafarge Readymix Concrete & Aggregates
Johannesburg
01.2006 - 06.2006
  • Maintained documentation on tests performed in lab.
  • Performed routine lab and department maintenance to keep area clean and orderly.
  • Performed testing and quality control using approved laboratory procedures and instrumentation.
  • Completed quality documents and input and saved quality data in appropriate locations.
  • Contributed to a safe working environment by consistently following established safety procedures and guidelines within the lab setting.
  • Conducted routine equipment maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and reducing downtime.
  • Streamlined sample processing for faster turnaround times and improved customer satisfaction.
  • Performed complex analyses using various instrumentation, delivering reliable data for informed decision making.
  • Supported regulatory compliance efforts through adherence to guidelines and thorough record-keeping practices.
  • Inspected laboratory equipment to maintain good working condition for optimal results.
  • Interpreted laboratory results to provide technical advice to technical managers

Education

Grade 12 -

ST MARYS COLLEGE
Groblersdal,Limpopo
12.2000

National Diploma - Chemical Engineering

UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG
Johannesburg, South Africa
09.2005

Advanced diploma NQF 7 - Business Management

MANCOSA
Johannesburg, Gauteng
04.2026

Skills

  • Technical process improvement

  • Training and mentoring

  • Employee development

Technical leadership

Technical system improvements

Quality assurance testing

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Time management

Adaptability and flexibility

Reliability

References

  • V, Mukwevho, General Manager, 012 813 4900, Soillab
  • S, Hlatshwayo, Project Engineer, 083 603 3290, Lafarge
  • S, Tshikombe, Manager, 072 263 3370, Soillab

Accomplishments

  • Advanced Project Management (2007)
  • ISO 17025 Certificate LABORATORY SYSTEM COURSE.

Timeline

TECHNICAL MANAGER

SOILLAB
06.2017 - Current

LAB MANAGER

SOILLAB
09.2008 - 05.2017

Senior Laboratory Technician

Department of public transport, roads and works (GAUTRANS)
07.2006 - 08.2008

Laboratory Technician

Lafarge Readymix Concrete & Aggregates
01.2006 - 06.2006

Chemical Engineering Intern

Lafarge Southern Africa: Quality department
01.2005 - 12.2006

Grade 12 -

ST MARYS COLLEGE

National Diploma - Chemical Engineering

UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

Advanced diploma NQF 7 - Business Management

MANCOSA
Mantsha ChoeuTechnical Manager