Laboratory Manager

Rite Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 60 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in food manufacturing is seeking a Laboratory Manager to oversee laboratory operations in Johannesburg. With a focus on food safety and quality assurance, the successful candidate will lead a dynamic team to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. This role requires a strong leader with extensive experience in laboratory management and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. If you're passionate about food safety and eager to make a significant impact in a thriving environment, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of experience in a food manufacturing laboratory.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety systems and regulatory compliance.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage laboratory operations ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
• Supervise and develop laboratory staff, ensuring accurate testing and results.
• Collaborate with departments to support continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Laboratory Management

Food Safety Systems

Analytical Thinking

Problem-Solving

Leadership

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Regulatory Compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Food Science

Bachelor's degree in Microbiology

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Tools

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

MS Office

ISO 17025

Job description

A large Food Manufacturing company situated in City Deep in Johannesburg is seeking a Laboratory Manager to join their Dynamic Team. The candidate MUST have 8-10 years of experience as a Senior Laboratory Technician or Manager of a Laboratory within a Food Manufacturing or food production environment.

Job Purpose : -

To lead and manage the laboratory operations in a food production plant, ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and compliance of all laboratory testing in accordance with food safety standards, company policies, and customer requirements. The Laboratory Manager plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the food safety and quality assurance systems across the plant.

Key Responsibilities : -

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., ISO 17025, FSSC 22000, HACCP).
• Supervise and develop laboratory staff, including training, performance management, and competency assessments.
• Ensure all testing (microbiological, chemical, and physical) is carried out efficiently and results are accurately recorded and communicated.
• Implement and maintain laboratory documentation, procedures, and quality systems.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensure all instruments are operating optimally.
• Interpret and review analytical results, troubleshoot deviations, and initiate corrective actions when necessary.
• Participate in internal and external audits, ensuring readiness and compliance at all times.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Procurement departments to support continuousimprovement initiatives.
• Maintain adequate inventory levels of laboratory reagents, consumables, and equipment.
• Be available to work shifts on an adhoc basis to support production demands.
• Be available for stock take weekends every second month, ensuring all laboratory inputs and consumables are accurately accounted for.
• Drive a culture of food safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the

laboratory team.

Key Requirements : -

Experience :

• 8-10 years of experience as a senior Laboratory Technician or Manager of a Laboratory within a food manufacturing or food production environment

Qualifications & Experience : -

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 5 to 8 years’ experience working in a food production laboratory environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety systems, regulatory compliance, and laboratory best practices.
• Experience with laboratory quality management systems (ISO 17025 preferred).
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficient in MS Office and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including adhoc shifts and every second-month stock take weekends

Technical Skills : -

• Advanced proficiency in MS PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Strong knowledge of food safety practices, GMP, and hygiene standards

Soft Skills : -

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• High energy levels, reliability, and a target-driven approach.
• Ability to motivate and influence others positively.

Work Conditions : -

• Must be flexible with work hours, including early starts and shift work.
• Must be willing to work long hours as required by operational demands.
• Must have own reliable transport
• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on compliance and best practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Leadership and people development.
• Quality and compliance focus.
• Planning and organisational skills.
• Communication and teamwork.
• Analytical thinking and decision-making.
• Adaptability and resilience.

Start Date : ASAP

Department : Technical

Hours of Work : Monday to Friday - 9 hours / day

Shift Work : Possibly

Industry : Food Manufacturing / Production

Application Process : -

Interested candidates should submit their CV and relevant qualifications. Only candidates meeting the specified criteria will be considered.

The following needs to be submitted as a completed application :