Lab Technician X2

PepsiCo Inc.; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

PepsiCo Inc. is seeking a laboratory professional to ensure accuracy and integrity of testing through calibration and maintenance of equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

The role focuses on quality, food safety compliance, and collaborative problem solving with stakeholders across the site. The ideal candidate will perform analytical testing on materials and products, manage data, and participate in proficiency programs to uphold laboratory credibility.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Food Technology or Biotechnology or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical testing on raw materials and finished products to ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.
• Manage laboratory data, including analysis, trending, reporting, and interpretation of results.
• Perform calibration, verification, and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment to ensure testing accuracy and reliability.
• Manage laboratory chemical and consumable inventories to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Participate in quarterly on-site proficiency testing programs to maintain laboratory capability and credibility.
• Ensure compliance with Quality, Food Safety, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), legal, and company requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities, leading projects, and partnering with relevant stakeholders.
• Apply problem-solving and root cause analysis methodologies to resolve critical issues and prevent recurrence.
• Promote a strong Quality and Food Safety culture through teamwork, collaboration, and proactive engagement across the site.

Skills

Analytical testing

Data management

Problem solving

Collaboration

Education

Diploma: Food Technology/ Biotechnology

Job description

Ensures the accuracy and integrity of laboratory testing through effective calibration and maintenance of testing equipment. Applies critical thinking, resilience, and problem-solving skills to address emerging issues and implement sustainable improvements. Collaborates proactively with stakeholders to drive compliance, support business objectives, and ensure all products meet food safety and quality requirements. Demonstrates agility, strong relationship‑building capabilities, and disciplined execution in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct analytical testing on raw materials and finished products to ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.
• Manage laboratory data, including analysis, trending, reporting, and interpretation of results.
• Perform calibration, verification, and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment to ensure testing accuracy and reliability.
• Manage laboratory chemical and consumable inventories to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Participate in quarterly on‑site proficiency testing programs to maintain laboratory capability and credibility.
• Ensure compliance with Quality, Food Safety, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), legal, and company requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities, leading projects, and partnering with relevant stakeholders.
• Apply problem‑solving and root cause analysis methodologies to resolve critical issues and prevent recurrence.
• Promote a strong Quality and Food Safety culture through teamwork, collaboration, and proactive engagement across the site.

Qualifications

• Diploma: Food Technology/ Biotechnology (or equivalent in experience)