Job Description

About the Company
A leading wine producer and exporter offering end-to-end solutions from product development and blending to packaging and logistics. With advanced facilities and global compliance standards, the company specializes in own-label contracts and a wide range of innovative wine products.
Job Purpose
To oversee the administration and optimization of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), conduct precise chemical and microbiological analyses for wine quality, and serve as a technical signatory in a SANS 17025-accredited laboratory, ensuring site hygiene and quality excellence through exceptional attention to detail, expert problem-solving, and specialized expertise in wine microbiology.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory Systems & Data Management

• Assist in administering and maintaining the LIMS system.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with SANAS 17025 standards.
• Support system configuration and troubleshooting.

Chemical & Microbiological Analysis

• Conduct routine chemical tests (pH, titratable acidity, sulfur dioxide, volatile acidity, alcohol).
• Perform microbiological testing for spoilage organisms.
• Maintain accurate and traceable records of all analyses.

Quality & Compliance

• Support compliance with SANAS 17025, ISO 22000, and internal quality standards.
• Assist in internal audits and prepare documentation for external audits.
• Act as a technical signatory for validated results (if qualified).

Equipment & Calibration

• Calibrate and validate lab equipment under supervision.
• Report equipment issues and assist in troubleshooting.

Training & Support

• Train junior staff on LIMS usage and basic analysis techniques.
• Share knowledge on hygiene protocols and microbiological standards.

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

• Participate in quality improvement initiatives.
• Analyse data to identify risks to wine quality and shelf life.
• Contribute to root cause analysis and corrective actions.

Site Hygiene & Governance

• Support hygiene monitoring and governance activities.
• Ensure compliance with microbiological methods and reporting protocols.

Requirements

• Education:

• BSc or National Diploma in Microbiology, Food Technology, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Experience:

• 2-3 years in a laboratory environment, preferably in the wine or food industry.
• Experience with LIMS and SANAS 17025 compliance is advantageous.
• Skills & Attributes:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data handling
• Good communication and report writing skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Passion for quality and continuous improvement
• Other:

• Own transport preferred
• Flexibility to work shifts or extended hours if needed

Starting date in August 2025