Senior Microbiologist: Food Safety & QA Expert

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

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.