Fruit Technologist

University of Fort Hare; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in South Africa is seeking a detail-driven Fruit Technologist in Somerset West. The role involves maintaining quality packing standards, ensuring compliance, and fostering relationships with packhouses and customers. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Agriculture or a related field and at least 3 years of experience in the fruit industry. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, along with MS Office proficiency, are essential.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in the fruit industry.
• Valid driver’s licence and reliable own transport.

Responsibilities

• Assess client requirements for product specifications and compliance needs.
• Conduct regular visits to packing facilities to ensure specifications are adhered to.
• Analyse customer feedback and collaborate with packhouses to resolve issues.

Skills

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or Food Science

Tools

Excel

Job description

Are you a detail-driven professional with a strong technical background in fruit quality and compliance?
If you enjoy working in a dynamic environment, ensuring quality standards, and building strong industry relationships, this Fruit Technologist role could be your next career step!

We’re looking for a Fruit Technologist in Somerset West, who will apply specialist knowledge to maintain high-quality packing standards, ensure compliance, and foster relationships with packhouses and customers. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of technical processes while contributing to the success of both the business and its clients.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Assess client requirements for product specifications and compliance needs
• Create and share clear product specification guidelines with sales teams and packing facilities
• Conduct regular visits to packing facilities to ensure specifications are understood and adhered to, optimising value for customers and producers
• Manage due diligence and compliance queries from customers and stay updated on market regulations
• Analyse customer feedback and collaborate with packhouses to resolve issues
• Review packing formats and pilot new product concepts

Minimum Requirements:

• Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Food Science or related field, with at least 3 years’ experience in the fruit industry
• Proficient in MS Office, especially Excel
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Valid driver’s licence and reliable own transport

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be shortlisted.