Senior Microbiologist - Food Safety

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape seeks a Senior Microbiologist to lead the food safety laboratory operations and oversee testing, validation of methods and regulatory compliance.

The role demands a strong microbiology background, leadership, and hands-on experience with PCR/ELISA, HACCP/ISO 22000, and mentoring staff in a high-throughput lab.

You will drive quality, manage budgets, and collaborate with R&D, QA and production to ensure product safety.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Microbiology with a specialization in food microbiology.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in food microbiology, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or senior role.
• Experience with culture-based methods, rapid detection systems, and pathogen identification.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all microbiological testing activities in the food safety laboratory.
• Develop, validate and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples and finished products.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop preventative strategies for microbial contamination.
• Interpret and report on microbiological test results for management and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO 22000 and internal quality standards.
• Manage laboratory resources including equipment, supplies and budgets.
• Train, supervise and mentor junior microbiologists and technicians.
• Investigate product holds, recalls and customer complaints related to microbiological issues.
• Stay current with advancements in food microbiology and regulatory changes.
• Collaborate with R&D, QA and production to ensure product integrity.

Skills

Microbiology

Food safety

PCR ELISA

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Data analysis

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Microbiology

PhD in Microbiology

Tools

PCR

ELISA

Rapid detection systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading company in the food production and safety sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Microbiologist to lead their laboratory operations in Upington, Northern Cape . This crucial role involves overseeing all aspects of microbiological testing, ensuring the safety and quality of food products from raw materials to finished goods. You will be responsible for developing and implementing testing protocols, managing laboratory staff, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards and regulations, and interpreting complex microbiological data. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of foodborne pathogens, microbial detection methods, and a strong commitment to maintaining the highest standards of public health. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to food safety at a senior level.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all microbiological testing activities within the food safety laboratory.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop preventative strategies for microbial contamination.
• Interpret and report on microbiological test results, providing actionable insights to management and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000) and internal quality standards.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, supplies, and budgets.
• Train, supervise, and mentor junior microbiologists and laboratory technicians.
• Investigate product holds, recalls, and customer complaints related to microbiological issues.
• Stay current with advancements in food microbiology, detection technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Collaborate with R&D, quality assurance, and production departments to ensure product integrity.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field with a specialization in food microbiology.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in food microbiology, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or senior role.
• Extensive experience with microbiological testing techniques, including culture-based methods, rapid detection systems (e.g., PCR, ELISA), and pathogen identification.
• Thorough understanding of foodborne pathogens, spoilage organisms, and microbial ecology in food systems.
• Proven knowledge of food safety management systems and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
• Experience in laboratory accreditation and quality management is essential.
• Proficiency in data analysis and report writing.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development. Employees benefit from working in a well-equipped laboratory with modern instrumentation. The work environment in Upington, Northern Cape is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. We value our employees and provide a supportive and challenging work atmosphere. Make a significant contribution to public health and food safety.