Senior Microbiologist - Food Safety

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Health benefits

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Modern instrumentation

Upington work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead the food safety laboratory in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on overseeing all microbiological testing, developing protocols, and guiding a team to ensure product safety from raw materials to finished goods.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Microbiology or Food Science, with 6+ years in food microbiology and at least 2 years in a supervisory role, plus expertise in PCR/ELISA and accreditation processes.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field with a specialization in food microbiology.
• 6+ years of experience in food microbiology, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or senior role.
• Experience with culture-based methods, PCR, ELISA and pathogen identification.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP/ISO 22000 and accreditation processes.
• Excellent leadership, communication and data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all microbiological testing activities within the food safety laboratory.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop preventative strategies for microbial contamination.
• Interpret and report on test results, providing actionable insights to management and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and internal quality standards.
• Manage laboratory resources, equipment, supplies, and budgets.
• Train, supervise, and mentor junior microbiologists and laboratory technicians.
• Investigate product holds, recalls, and customer complaints related to microbiological issues.
• Stay current with advancements in food microbiology and regulatory changes.
• Collaborate with R&D, quality assurance, and production departments.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Microbiology/Food Science

Tools

PCR

ELISA

Microbiological testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading company in the food production and safety sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Microbiologist to lead their laboratory operations in Upington, Northern Cape . This crucial role involves overseeing all aspects of microbiological testing, ensuring the safety and quality of food products from raw materials to finished goods. You will be responsible for developing and implementing testing protocols, managing laboratory staff, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards and regulations, and interpreting complex microbiological data. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of foodborne pathogens, microbial detection methods, and a strong commitment to maintaining the highest standards of public health. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to food safety at a senior level.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all microbiological testing activities within the food safety laboratory.
• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop preventative strategies for microbial contamination.
• Interpret and report on microbiological test results, providing actionable insights to management and production teams.
• Ensure compliance with relevant food safety regulations (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000) and internal quality standards.
• Manage laboratory resources, including equipment, supplies, and budgets.
• Train, supervise, and mentor junior microbiologists and laboratory technicians.
• Investigate product holds, recalls, and customer complaints related to microbiological issues.
• Stay current with advancements in food microbiology, detection technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Collaborate with R&D, quality assurance, and production departments to ensure product integrity.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or a related field with a specialization in food microbiology.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in food microbiology, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or senior role.
• Extensive experience with microbiological testing techniques, including culture-based methods, rapid detection systems (e.g., PCR, ELISA), and pathogen identification.
• Thorough understanding of foodborne pathogens, spoilage organisms, and microbial ecology in food systems.
• Proven knowledge of food safety management systems and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
• Experience in laboratory accreditation and quality management is essential.
• Proficiency in data analysis and report writing.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health benefits, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for professional development.
• Employees benefit from working in a well-equipped laboratory with modern instrumentation.
• The work environment in Upington, Northern Cape is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality.
• We value our employees and provide a supportive and challenging work atmosphere.
• Make a significant contribution to public health and food safety.