Senior Microbiologist - Food Safety & Quality Assurance

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa, seeks a Senior Microbiologist to lead the Food Safety and QA laboratory. You will oversee all microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples and finished products, and drive robust food safety programs in line with HACCP and ISO 22000.

You will manage laboratory operations, train staff, investigate deviations, and collaborate with R&D, production, and QA teams to continuously improve food safety systems.

Qualifications

• MSc/PhD in Microbiology or related field with specialization in food microbiology.
• 5+ years in food microbiology, QA, or food safety within the food industry.
• Experience with enumeration, identification, and pathogen detection: plating, PCR, ELISA.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, and food safety standards.
• Laboratory management and supervision experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples and finished products.
• Develop, validate and implement microbiological testing methods and protocols.
• Manage laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, calibration and inventory control.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO 22000, GFSI and company policies.
• Investigate microbiological deviations, root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Train staff on food safety and microbiological controls across departments.
• Review and approve microbiological test results and reports.
• Collaborate with R&D, production and QA teams to address food safety challenges.
• Stay updated on emerging microbiological risks and food safety tech.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of the food safety management system.

Skills

Microbiology testing

PCR/ELISA

Laboratory management

LIMS

Regulatory knowledge

Education

MSc/PhD in Microbiology or Food Science

Tools

LIMS

PCR/ELISA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading food production and distribution company, is seeking a dedicated Senior Microbiologist to lead their Food Safety and Quality Assurance laboratory in Upington, Northern Cape . This vital role involves overseeing all microbiological testing, developing and implementing robust food safety programs, and ensuring compliance with national and international food safety standards. You will be responsible for managing laboratory operations, training staff, investigating deviations, and contributing to the continuous improvement of food safety protocols. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in food microbiology, extensive experience with various microbiological testing methods, and a deep understanding of HACCP, ISO 22000, and other food safety management systems. This is an excellent opportunity to ensure the safety and quality of food products for consumers within a reputable organization. The Upington facility is equipped for advanced microbiological analysis, and the company prioritizes a safe and collaborative work culture.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and conduct microbiological testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished food products. Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods and protocols. Manage laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, calibration, and inventory control. Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations, standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000, GFSI), and company policies. Investigate and troubleshoot microbiological issues, including contamination investigations and root cause analysis. Develop and deliver training programs on food safety and microbiological control to laboratory staff and other departments. Review and approve microbiological test results and reports. Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams to address food safety challenges and implement preventive measures. Stay updated on emerging microbiological risks and advancements in food safety science and technology. Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of the company's overall food safety management system.

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 food microbiology, quality assurance, or food safety management within the food industry. Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of microbiological techniques, including enumeration, identification, and pathogen detection methods (e.g., plating, PCR, ELISA). In-depth knowledge of HACCP, ISO 22000, and other food safety standards. Experience in laboratory management and supervision. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively train and present information. Proficiency in using laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and relevant software. Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy and quality. Familiarity with regulatory requirements for food safety in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, with an annual remuneration package ranging from to ZAR, commensurate with experience and qualifications, for this role in Upington, Northern Cape . Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund contribution, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certifications in food safety, are provided. The company offers a stable work environment with a strong focus on product integrity and career growth within the food industry.