Permanent - Senior Microbiologist - Ekurhuleni (East Rand) - South Africa

Senior Microbiologist, Quality Control Department.

Reporting directly to the Section Head, Microbiology.

OBJECTIVE: To perform compositing of samples, method validation, routine QC Microbiological analyses on incoming raw materials, in-process samples, customer complaints and Finished Products in the QC Microbiology laboratory

MAIN DUTIES:

Perform QC Microbiological testing and recording of results for incoming raw materials, in –process liquid and powder samples; water samples and Infant formula finished product packs in accordance with standard methods and work instructions

Maintain current Good Microbiological Laboratory Practice in all operations in the Microbiological laboratory in accordance with accepted Microbiological standards.

Ensure daily reporting of problems to the section head.

Ensure daily review of workflow and highlighting Out of Specification issues to Section Head as and when they occur.

Perform verification and / or validation of all Equipment on a routine basis to ensure in good working order.

Maintain Microbiological environmental programme using Macro and Micro swabbing, grab samples. Testing of all environmental samples. 

Accurate and timeous completion of the relevant test reports 

Participate in Proficiency testing with NLA

Contribute to the development of microbiology methods

Draft and review Standard operating procedures for microbiology methods

Conduct exercises to validate methods according to ISO 17025 

Train students on the implementation of microbiological methods according to Standard operating procedures

Contribute to the organization of the laboratory to achieve compliance with ISO 17025 and the relevant safety requirements

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Grade 12(Matric) with Mathematics and Science 

National Diploma or Degree in Microbiology or Biotechnology

4 years’ experience in a Food or Pharmaceutical QC Microbiology laboratory 

Knowledge of Pathogenic testing (Salmonella, Staph-aureus, B. Cereus and Cronobacter)

Infant Formula Product knowledge would be an advantage

Knowledge of Aseptic techniques

Good interpersonal and communication, report writing and problem-solving skills.

Technical Signatory for ISO 17025 is a must

Knowledge and application of ISO 17025 and method validation according to TR 28 mandatory. FDA Microbiological standards an advantage

knowledge of equipment verification/calibration (autoclave, pH meter, balances, LFU’s etc)

Good understanding of GLP, GMP, HACCP and the QMS

MUST be prepared to work overtime (scheduled/unscheduled) outside normal hours – Saturday work is required on a rotational basis. Shift work will also be required

Must be willing to be a stand in for the Section Head.

Key Behavioral Dimensions and skills:

Pro-active and energetic with a high level of attention to detail/accuracy

Adherence to Standard Operation Procedures, Safety and Good Laboratory Practice requirements in the laboratory and related environments

Organizational commitment and integrity

Good planning and organizing skills

Good verbal and written communication

Good time management skills

Good interpersonal skills

Ability to work as a team

Flexibility is compulsory