Laboratory Manager at Rhodes Food Group

Overview

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.

• 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.

• Degree or Diploma in Food Technology, Food Science, or a related field.

• 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

• 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)

• 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.

• 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.