Quality Control Technologist

Optential Consulting; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 250,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Optential Consulting in South Africa is seeking a QA-focused candidate for a lab quality role. You will perform in-process QC measurements (Brix, pH, CO2, DO), inspect fill levels and seals, analyze alcohol content, and visually inspect packaging and labels.

You will document results promptly and report any deviations to supervisors. The role also covers finished product testing, environmental sampling, rigorous documentation, GMP/HACCP adherence, audits, and ongoing process improvements within

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 using Alcolyze; visual inspection for foreign matter, packaging defects and label accuracy; record test results in logs and systems; report out-of-spec results to production supervisor and QA manager.

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