Lead Microbiologist, Food Safety & QA (On-Site)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Microbiologist to lead food safety and quality assurance at its Nelspruit facility. You will direct microbiology testing, develop risk assessments, and ensure HACCP compliance while mentoring a team of lab professionals.

The role demands advanced degrees and 5+ years in food microbiology, with strong knowledge of pathogens and GMP/GFSI standards. On-site work in Mpumalanga is required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in food microbiology, with a focus on food safety and quality assurance.
• In-depth knowledge of foodborne pathogens, spoilage organisms, and indicator organisms.
• Experience with various microbiological techniques (e.g., culturing, PCR, rapid methods).
• Strong understanding of HACCP principles, GMP, and GFSI standards (e.g., FSSC 22000, BRC).
• Experience in leading and managing a laboratory team.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and reporting skills.
• Ability to work full-time on-site at our facility in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Lead the microbiological testing program for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished food products.
• Develop and implement microbial risk assessments and food safety control plans (e.g., HACCP).
• Investigate microbial contamination incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee the environmental monitoring program within the production facility.
• Manage and mentor a team of laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists.
• Ensure compliance with national and international food safety standards and regulations.
• Validate and troubleshoot microbiological methods and laboratory procedures.
• Stay updated on emerging food safety issues and best practices.
• Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and R&D teams.

Skills

Leadership

Microbiology

Quality Assurance

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Microbiology or related field

5+ years in food microbiology

Tools

PCR

Rapid methods

Culturing

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Senior Microbiologist to lead food safety and quality assurance at its Nelspruit facility. You will direct microbiology testing, develop risk assessments, and ensure HACCP compliance while mentoring a team of lab professionals.

The role demands advanced degrees and 5+ years in food microbiology, with strong knowledge of pathogens and GMP/GFSI standards. On-site work in Mpumalanga is required.