Senior Microbiologist - Food Safety

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead our food safety microbiology program. The role requires extensive testing, method validation, and team leadership to ensure microbiological safety and quality of products.

You will work with production and QA, stay current with regulatory changes, and implement preventative measures to address deviations.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field with a specialization in food microbiology.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with supervisory roles in a food microbiology lab.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and oversee comprehensive microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished food products.
• Identify, isolate, and quantify microorganisms, including pathogens and spoilage organisms, using traditional and molecular techniques.
• Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological testing methods and protocols.
• Lead and mentor a team of laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists, providing training and technical guidance.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO 22000, and internal quality policies.
• Investigate deviations and customer complaints, determining root causes and preventive actions.
• Prepare reports on microbiological findings and contribute to QA initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field with specialization in food microbiology

Tools

LIMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading company in food production and safety, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Microbiologist for their facility in Mahikeng, North West . This vital role is responsible for ensuring the microbiological safety and quality of food products through robust testing, analysis, and implementation of preventative strategies. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of foodborne pathogens, spoilage microorganisms, and microbial detection methods. You will lead a team of microbiologists, develop and validate testing procedures, interpret results, and collaborate with production and quality assurance teams to address any microbiological concerns. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to public health and uphold the highest standards of food safety in a dynamic industry. We are seeking a dedicated professional with a strong scientific background and a commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct and oversee comprehensive microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished food products. Identify, isolate, and quantify microorganisms, including pathogens and spoilage organisms, using traditional and molecular techniques. Develop, validate, and implement new microbiological testing methods and protocols. Interpret test results, identify trends, and make recommendations for corrective actions to ensure product safety and quality. Lead and mentor a team of laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists, providing training and technical guidance. Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations, standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000), and internal quality policies. Investigate microbiological deviations and customer complaints, determining root causes and implementing preventive measures. Maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper calibration and functioning. Stay current with scientific advancements and regulatory changes in food microbiology. Prepare reports on microbiological findings and contribute to quality assurance initiatives.

Requirements

M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field with a specialization in food microbiology. Minimum of 5 years of experience in a food industry microbiology laboratory setting, with supervisory experience preferred. In-depth knowledge of foodborne pathogens (e.g., Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli) and spoilage microorganisms. Proficiency in a range of microbiological techniques, including culture-based methods, rapid diagnostic kits, and molecular methods (e.g., PCR). Experience with method validation and knowledge of regulatory requirements for food safety. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities. Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is a plus. Experience working in the Mahikeng, North West region is an advantage. Commitment to upholding the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits program including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• We provide a retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions and life insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are actively supported through training and conference attendance.
• Employees receive generous paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.
• This role is based at our modern food safety laboratory in Mahikeng, North West .
• Additional benefits include a supportive work culture, access to advanced laboratory equipment, and opportunities for career advancement within a reputable organization.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.