Senior Microbiologist - Food Safety

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Annual leave

Professional development

Stable work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead microbiological testing and quality assurance in Port Elizabeth. You will develop safety protocols, ensure regulatory compliance, and collaborate with quality and production teams to maintain product integrity in a dynamic food industry.

The role emphasizes extensive lab experience in microbial methods, leadership, and a commitment to safeguarding public health through robust microbial control.

Qualifications

• Requires MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science or related biological field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a food microbiology lab.
• Proven expertise in microbial identification, enumeration and pathogen detection.
• Strong understanding of food safety management systems and regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience with aseptic techniques and lab safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and interpret microbiological analyses of raw materials, finished products and environmental samples.
• Develop, validate and implement new microbiological testing methods and sampling plans.
• Investigate and resolve microbial contamination issues and outbreaks.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and standards (HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Provide technical expertise and training to laboratory personnel and other departments on food microbiology best practices.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to quality management systems.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

MSc/PhD in Microbiology or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Senior Microbiologist to bolster their food safety and quality assurance team in Port Elizabeth . In this crucial role, you will oversee microbiological testing, develop and implement advanced safety protocols, and ensure compliance with stringent regulatory standards. You will play a key part in safeguarding public health by maintaining the highest levels of microbial control in food production. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to food safety innovation within a leading organization, collaborating with quality and production teams to uphold product integrity in the dynamic food industry of Port Elizabeth .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct and interpret microbiological analyses of raw materials, finished products, and environmental samples.
• Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological testing methods and sampling plans.
• Investigate and resolve microbial contamination issues and outbreaks.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations and standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Provide technical expertise and training to laboratory personnel and other departments on food microbiology best practices.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to quality management systems.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related biological science field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a food microbiology laboratory setting.
• Proven expertise in microbial identification techniques, enumeration, and pathogen detection.
• Strong understanding of food safety management systems and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with aseptic techniques and laboratory safety protocols.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• A stable and supportive work environment in Port Elizabeth , contributing to vital food safety initiatives.