Job Description

Laboratory Technician
Athlone
R11,400 CTC per month
Department: Quality
Facility: Dairy & Juice
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• Organize and maintain retention samples and remove outdated samples.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.

Skills Required