Job Description

Laboratory Technician
Athlone
R11,900 CTC per month
Department: Quality
Facility: Dairy & Juice
Purpose
To conduct chemical and microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure compliance with quality, food safety, and health and safety standards. The role supports production teams by verifying that products meet the clients specifications and key account requirements throughout the production process.
Responsibilities
Chemical Analysis

• Perform testing on raw milk, pasteurized milk, cream, buttermilk, yogurt, juice, and dairy blends.
• Analyse parameters including but not limited to pH, butterfat, protein stability, sugar content (Brix), viscosity, texture, and total solids.
• Conduct titrations for CIP and COP chemical strength verification.
• Test for antibiotics using rapid and confirmatory methods and reject products if tests fail.
• Complete Product Release documentation and issue release slips based on test results.

Microbiology

• Conduct microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.
• Plate samples as per SOPs and monitor microbial development overnight.
• Evaluate results against standards and report deviations immediately.
• Perform additional tests as required for over-developed samples.

Retention Sample Management

• Collect and store daily production samples for retention and shelf-life testing.
• Organize and maintain retention samples and remove outdated samples.
• Perform organoleptic and shelf-life tests upon expiry or for customer complaints.

Effluent Testing

• Analyse drain water/effluent samples for pH and COD to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

Documentation & Reporting

• Accurately record all test results in hard copy and electronic formats.
• Maintain and update records for COAs, trend analyses, and non-conformance reports.
• Transfer data to shared systems for reporting and traceability.

Factory Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure adherence to food safety, health, and safety policies within the production environment.
• Monitor staff compliance with hygiene and quality standards.
• Report quality issues, non-conformances, or unsafe practices to the Laboratory Coordinator.

Key Performance Indicators

• Timely availability of test results for decision-making.
• Accuracy and completeness of documentation.
• Adherence to hygiene, housekeeping, and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Reduction in non-compliance incidents.
• Consistent stock availability for laboratory consumables.

Working Conditions

• Production/factory environment with potential exposure to wet, slippery, and cold conditions.
• Handling of chemicals and testing equipment.
• Shift work, including nights and weekends.

Educational Requirements

• Post-matric qualification in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Technology, or Agriculture.
• Strong foundation in Mathematics and Science.

Work Experience

• Experience in laboratory testing within a production or FMCG environment.
• Familiarity with quality control, quality assurance, and food safety standards.

Skills & Competencies

• Technical Skills: Laboratory testing, calibration, and use of analytical equipment.
• Communication: Ability to document and report findings clearly and accurately.
• Organizational Skills: Managing tasks efficiently within tight deadlines.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and rectify quality issues promptly.
• Teamwork: Collaboration with colleagues across departments.
• Computer Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and laboratory management systems.

Reporting Structure
Line Managers:

• Chemistry Laboratory Coordinator
• Microbiology Laboratory Coordinator
• Food Safety Systems Administrator
• Food Safety Systems Coordinator

Decision-Making Authority

• Stop production if products fail to meet specifications.
• Request additional samples to verify test results.
• Inform supervisors of non-compliant products immediately.

Participation Areas

• Implementation of best practices in laboratory operations.
• Problem-solving initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
• Corrective and preventative action planning.

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