Quality Assurance Technologist

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

Job summary

A beverage quality assurance firm located in South Africa is seeking a Quality Control Specialist responsible for ensuring products meet safety and regulatory standards. The role includes conducting quality tests, performing inspections on raw materials and finished goods, documenting results, and adhering to GMP and HACCP principles. Candidates should have experience in quality control and be proficient with laboratory equipment. This position plays a crucial role in maintaining high-quality beverage production.

Qualifications

• Experience with quality control testing and inspections.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and HACCP principles.
• Ability to accurately operate laboratory equipment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct a variety of quality control tests on products and raw materials.
• Perform sensory evaluations and microbiological testing.
• Maintain quality documentation and support audits.

Job description

SUMMARY

Responsible for performing a variety of quality control tests and inspections on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure they meet established quality, safety, and regulatory standards. This role is critical in supporting the Quality Assurance Manager in maintaining the company's Quality Management System and ensuring the production of high-quality, safe beverage products.

POSITION INFO

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