Junior Assistant Cheesemaker

Babylonstoren; Franschhoek; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Babylonstoren in Franschhoek is seeking a Junior Assistant Cheesemaker (Entry-Level) to join our production team. No prior cheesemaking experience is required as full on‑the‑job training is provided by our Head Cheesemaker.

You will assist with vats, maintain hygiene, care for aging cheeses, and help with packaging, labeling, and record-keeping. This role offers hands-on learning and exposure to a craft-focused dairy operation.

Qualifications

• No prior cheesemaking experience required, on‑the‑job training provided.
• Physically fit and able to stand long shifts, lift 20–25 kg.
• Willing to follow strict HACCP and food safety procedures.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow recipes and timings.
• Reliable transport and punctuality due to early shifts.
• Positive attitude and ability to work well within a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing vats, monitor milk temperatures, add cultures, cut curds, and moulds.
• Maintain hygiene by cleaning and sterilising vats, tools, drainage tables, and production areas daily.
• Care for cheeses in aging rooms by flipping, brushing, washing, and monitoring cheese wheels.
• Wrap, vacuum-pack, weigh, and label finished products for retail and wholesale distribution.
• Keep accurate production records, including batch numbers, pH levels, temperatures, and cleaning schedules.
• Safely load, unload, and store ingredients and materials such as milk churns, salt sacks, and packaging supplies.
• Assist with guest interaction and workshops when required.

Skills

Willingness to learn

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Food safety awareness

Job description

Junior Assistant Cheesemaker (Entry-Level)

Are you passionate about craft food production and eager to learn the art of cheesemaking? We are looking for a motivated Junior Assistant Cheesemaker to join our production team.

In this entry-level role, you will work directly alongside our Head Cheesemaker and learn everything from milk pasteurisation and curd management to the science behind Buffalo Mozzarella. No prior cheesemaking experience is required - we provide full on-the-job training for candidates with the right attitude, work ethic, and passion for quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with preparing vats, monitoring milk temperatures, adding cultures, cutting curds, and handling cheese moulds.
• Maintain strict hygiene and food safety standards by cleaning and sterilising vats, tools, drainage tables, and production areas daily.
• Care for cheeses in the aging rooms by flipping, brushing, washing, and monitoring cheese wheels.
• Wrap, vacuum-pack, weigh, and label finished products accurately for retail and wholesale distribution.
• Keep accurate production records, including batch numbers, pH levels, temperatures, and cleaning schedules.
• Safely load, unload, and store ingredients and materials such as milk churns, salt sacks, and packaging supplies.
• Assist with guest interaction and workshops when required.

Requirements & Qualifications

• No prior experience required - experience in food production, kitchens, brewing, hospitality, or farming will be advantageous.
• Physically fit and able to stand for long shifts, work in hot, humid or chilled environments, and repeatedly lift 20-25 kg.
• Strong commitment to personal hygiene and willingness to follow strict HACCP and food safety procedures.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow recipes, timings, and measurements accurately.
• Reliable transport and punctuality, as shifts may start very early in the morning.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work well within a team environment.

If you are passionate about food production and eager to learn a unique craft, we would love to hear from you.