About the position
Introduction
RFG Foods (Pty) Ltd is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Quality Control & Laboratory Manager to join our Aseptic Plant operations. This role is critical in ensuring that all laboratory and quality control activities are effectively managed to deliver safe, legal, and high-quality products that meet customer, regulatory, and food safety requirements.
Duties & Responsibilities
Laboratory and Quality Control Management
- Manage all laboratory activities to ensure required operational activities are performed as prescribed.
- Coordinate and control quality control activities within the Aseptic Plant in line with food safety and quality management system requirements.
- Ensure all QC tests are conducted according to approved work instructions, applicable methods, and required testing frequencies.
- Coordinate and manage staff and functions within the QC and Microbiology Laboratories.
- Review daily calibration records for measuring, testing, and recording equipment.
- Maintain and control the administration, filing, and archiving of QC and Microbiology Laboratory documentation.
Production and Operational Support
- Guide Production, Warehouse, and Labelling operations to ensure the production of quality products that comply with customer specifications, hygiene standards, food safety systems, legal, and other requirements.
- Supervise inspection and testing of incoming production materials and ingredients or verify Certificates of Analysis (COAs) and Certificates of Conformance (COCs).
- Monitor and evaluate finished products, including periodic inspections, pre-labelling checks, stock age inspections, and shelf-life analysis.
- Administer and maintain the Hold System.
- Liaise with the PPECB regarding sample requirements, product inspections, and evaluations.
Microbiology and Food Safety
- Coordinate and maintain the microbiological testing regime, including plant water quality monitoring.
- Identify deviations, raise non-conformances, and ensure corrective and preventive actions are implemented.
- Validate and verify process controls for Critical Control Points (CCPs).
- Prevent or reduce quality and food safety non-conformances through proactive monitoring and intervention.
Quality Management System (QMS)
- Review and maintain quality and process documentation to ensure daily compliance with procedures and work instructions.
- Provide administrative support to the QA Systems Administrator and Shipping Department to ensure QMS documentation is properly maintained.
- Investigate customer complaints and implement corrective actions.
- Trend, analyze, and report on quality non-conformances.
- Review QMS documentation as required.
Audits, Training and Development
- Conduct internal audits and assist the Technical Manager in preparation for external audits.
- Assist with on-the-job training of QC staff and maintain discipline within the team.
- Support new product development through pre-trials and sample preparation.
- Participate in projects related to food safety and quality management system improvements.
Desired Experience & Qualification
Educational Requirements
- Degree or Diploma in Food Technology, Food Science, or a related field.
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years' experience in a senior production or quality control role within the food industry.
- In-depth knowledge of:
- Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
- Thermal processing and aseptic filling operations
- HACCP principles and implementation
Skills and Competencies
- Computer literate with strong administrative skills
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Problem-solving ability and proactive approach
- Strong team player with the ability to engage staff at all levels
- HACCP certification (essential)
- Internal Audit qualification (essential)
Additional Duties and Attributes
- Ensure compliance with ISO, HACCP, and GMP standards.
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety rules, including personal safety obligations.
- Report any non-conforming products or business irregularities.
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping in line with GMP requirements.
- Comply with all Company Policies, Procedures, and Code of Conduct.
How to Apply
Please note:
- All information provided by candidates will be verified.
- RFG FOODS (PTY) LTD reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement and/or not appoint an applicant.
- Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
- If you have not received a response within 14 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
