Laboratory Technician - CapeTown - West Coast Personnel

Description

Laboratory Technician

Conducting chemical and microbiological analyses is crucial for ensuring compliance with quality, food safety, and health standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Chemical Analysis: Perform testing on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods, including pH, butterfat, protein stability, sugar content (Brix), viscosity, texture, and total solids.
• Microbiology: Conduct microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods, monitoring microbial development overnight and evaluating results against standards.
• Routine Sampling: Collect, store, and maintain retention samples, removing outdated samples and performing organoleptic and shelf-life tests as required.
• Effluent Testing: Analyze drain water/effluent samples for pH and COD to ensure environmental compliance.
• Documentation & Reporting: Accurately record test results, maintaining records for COAs, trend analyses, and non-conformance reports, and transferring data to shared systems for reporting and traceability.

Educational Requirements

• Post-matric qualification in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Technology, or Agriculture, with a 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: Identifying and rectifying quality issues promptly.
• Teamwork: Collaboration with colleagues across departments.
• Computer Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and laboratory management systems.