Senior Microbiologist: Lead Food Safety & QA Excellence

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Paid time off

Professional development

Public health impact

Team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead the Food Safety and Quality Assurance team in Benoni. You will develop and implement microbiological testing programs across the supply chain, from raw materials to finished products, ensuring microbial safety and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has an MSc or PhD in Microbiology or Food Science, 6+ years in food microbiology, knowledge of pathogens, and strong HACCP/ISO 22000 experience with a talent for mentoring staff and

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Microbiology, Food Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in food microbiology with focus on safety and QA.
• Knowledge of common foodborne pathogens and spoilage microorganisms.
• Experience with HACCP and other food safety management systems.
• Excellent communication, analytical and problem-solving skills for the Benoni facility.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and implement microbiological testing methods for raw materials, in-process samples, and finished products.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement control strategies to mitigate microbiological hazards.
• Investigate customer complaints and out-of-specification results related to microbial contamination.
• Ensure compliance with relevant food safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000).
• Train and mentor junior laboratory personnel on microbiological techniques and safety protocols.
• Stay updated on emerging microbiological risks and best practices in the food industry.

Skills

Communication

Analytical

Problem-solving

Education

MSc or PhD in Microbiology or Food Science

Tools

Culture-based methods

Rapid testing methods

Molecular techniques

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Microbiologist to lead the Food Safety and Quality Assurance team in Benoni. You will develop and implement microbiological testing programs across the supply chain, from raw materials to finished products, ensuring microbial safety and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has an MSc or PhD in Microbiology or Food Science, 6+ years in food microbiology, knowledge of pathogens, and strong HACCP/ISO 22000 experience with a talent for mentoring staff and