Quality Assurance Technologist

Optential Consulting (Pty) Ltd; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A quality control consulting firm in South Africa seeks an individual for quality control responsibilities including in-process and finished product testing. The role requires conducting various measurements, documenting results, and following strict food safety and quality protocols. Candidates must be experienced in laboratory procedures and quality control standards, with a strong focus on adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices. This position offers a critical role in ensuring product safety and compliance.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of chemical measurement methods and laboratory procedures.
• Experience in quality control processes and Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment safely and accurately.

Responsibilities

• Conduct quality control tests for raw materials and finished products.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and adhere to safety standards.
• Document test results and report deviations to management.

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

In-Process Quality Control:

• Brix (sugar content) and pH measurements.
• CO2 levels and dissolved oxygen (DO)
• Fill levels and net contents.
• Seam integrity and can / closure inspections.
• Alcohol analysis : measure alcohol content using Alcolyze
• Visual inspection for foreign matter, packaging defects, and label accuracy.
• Record all test results accurately and promptly in designated logs and systems.
• Immediately report any out-of-specification results or deviations to the production supervisor and QA manager.

Finished Product Testing:

• Sensory evaluation (taste, aroma, appearance).
• Conduct microbiological sampling and testing for key indicators (e.g., yeast, mold, bacteria) as per established protocols.
• Verify product coding, date marking, and packaging integrity.

Non-product environmental testing.

• Take tanks and filling equipment swabs
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meters, refractometers, CO2 meters, spectrophotometers) accurately and safely.
• Perform routine calibration and verification of instruments.
• Maintain a clean and organized laboratory workspace.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Complete all required quality control documentation, logs, and reports meticulously.
• Assist in maintaining quality records and filing systems.
• Contribute to non-conformance reports and corrective action documentation as needed.

Food Safety & GMP Adherence:

• Adhere strictly to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP principles, and company food safety policies at all times.
• Report any food safety concerns or deviations to the QA Manager.
• Participate in internal and external audits as required.

Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement:

• Assist in the investigation of quality issues, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective actions.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the QA department and across production