Job Description

• To supervise and coordinate the daily operations of the laboratory within the mill, ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, food safety, and quality standards. This includes managing personnel, ensuring analytical accuracy, maintaining equipment, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Supervise laboratory personnel and trainees
• Schedule daily work activities and ensure workload balance
• Conduct training on methods & procedures, as well as competency assessments and ensure effective implementation of ISO 17025
• Ensure all testing is conducted in line with ISO/IEC 17025, SANAS and internal SOPs
• Coordinate internal audits, management reviews, and cross-functional audits Approve test results, certificates of analysis (COAs), and release of product
• Maintain the laboratory’s document control system (SOPs, WI, forms)
• Monitor and trend lab performance through control charts, proficiency testing, and non-conformance logs
• Drive corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) related to testing errors or deviations
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and compliance with mill safety protocols
• Report results and non-conformances to relevant departments in a timely manner
• Plan maintenance and servicing of laboratory equipment always ensure accuracy of equipment and results
• Represent the laboratory during customer or auditor visits
• Manage timeous collation of results and compilation of reports which will ensure actions taken are effective
• Act as Deputy to the Food Safety Team Leader, ensuring continuity and support of the Food Safety Management System
• Assist the Manager with departmental functions such as assuming a second-in-charge role when required
• Assist with ensuring compliance with FSSC 22000, through training, validation/verification of control measures, and maintenance of prerequisite programs requirements across the mill

Qualification Requirements

• Matric
• Qualified Food Technologist/ Degree in Food Science or Analytical Chemistry Degree
• ISO 17025 Implementation

Experience Requirements

• Min of 3 – 5 years’ experience in FMCG Laboratory
• 2 Years’ experience in a Supervisory role
• 2 Years’ experience in the milling industry
• Computer literacy

Key Outputs

• Audits are conducted as required on the Lab Management System
• Audit Non-conformances are identified, Registered and actioned
• Review effectiveness of Corrective actions implemented