Senior Microbiologist

Placements24; Queenstown; Sur place; NZD 74 000 - 127 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Performance-based bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid annual leave

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist for our Queenstown facility to lead a multidisciplinary team and drive advanced microbial testing. The role focuses on identifying, enumerating, and controlling microbial hazards in raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.

You will develop robust testing methods, interpret complex results, and ensure compliance with stringent food safety standards. Strong leadership and communication are essential.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related biological field.
• Minimum of 5 years in a microbiology lab, preferably in food or pharmaceutical industries.
• Proven experience in microbial identification, enumeration, and QC techniques.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations (HACCP, ISO 22000); PCR/qPCR experience is a plus.

Responsabilités

• Supervise and mentor a team of laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Perform advanced microbial identification and characterization techniques.
• Interpret complex microbiological data and generate comprehensive reports.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and company policies.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and advise on contamination control.
• Contribute to R&D projects to improve product safety and shelf life.

Connaissances

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Project management

Formation

MSc or PhD in Microbiology/related

Outils

PCR

qPCR

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the food safety and quality assurance sector, is seeking a highly competent Senior Microbiologist to join their advanced laboratory facility in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This role is crucial for overseeing microbial testing, ensuring product safety, and contributing to research and development initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team of microbiologists, developing new testing methodologies, and maintaining stringent quality standards. This hands‑on position requires a deep understanding of microbial identification, enumeration, and control strategies within industrial settings. The role is based at our modern laboratory in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor a team of laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Perform advanced microbial identification and characterization techniques.
• Interpret complex microbiological data and generate comprehensive reports.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and provide expertise on microbial contamination control.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop strategies to mitigate microbiological hazards.
• Contribute to research and development projects aimed at improving product safety and shelf life.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related biological science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a microbiology laboratory, preferably within the food or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience in microbial identification, enumeration, and quality control techniques.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Experience with molecular microbiology techniques (e.g., PCR, qPCR) is a significant advantage.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Meticulous attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high-quality standards.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including a performance‑based bonus.
• Employees benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid annual leave.
• Opportunities for professional development and training are provided to support career growth.
• This position is based at our well‑equipped facility in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**, offering a stable and rewarding career path.