Lab Technician (Micro) at The South African Breweries (SAB)

Job Description

The key purpose of this role is to carry out specialized analysis in support of production teams, problem solving, continuous improvement initiatives and training.

Key outputs and responsibilities:

Specialist Analysis

• Carry out specialised micro analysis according to standard and the minimum micro sampling plan. Ensure traceability of results and record on appropriate information systems.
• Communicate results clearly and timeously to production teams and stakeholders.
• Conduct ad hoc analysis to assist with problem solving.
• Provide production with good quality, yeast for propagation free of contaminants.
• Management and execution of basic maintenance and calibration schedules on test equipment

Quality Auditing

• Conduct required and requested quality audits, completing the appropriate documentation and communicating the results.
• Review quality analysis procedures for updates when required.
• Where required, initiate corrective actions to close gaps generated by audits.

Training

• Assist in training, coaching and mentoring of plant personnel on good hygiene practices.
• Take part in the development of training material.
• Complete the competency guide for the micro lab technician role.

Continuous Improvement

• Carry out specialised analyses in support of the evaluation of continuous improvement opportunities.
• Where required, take part in team evaluations of continuous improvement opportunities.
• Take part in regional and divisional process optimisation initiatives as required.
• Drive the Quality VPO through adhering to the minimum micro sampling plan and standards.
• Support the production teams with problem solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Traceability of samples and accuracy results when reporting to production teams.
• Effectively communicating with all levels of the business and follow up when necessary.
• Working timeously and managing individual workloads effectively to ensure sample frequencies are met

Profile:

• BSc in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Food Technology, or equivalent
• 2 Years experience in the Food Industry and in a micro laboratory environment is ideal
• Packaging and/or Brewing experience is preferable
• Knowledge of SAP PDM, Microsoft Office packages and LIMS will be an advantage
• Demonstrate Good Lab Practices and adherence to housekeeping (5S), health and safety standards
• Strong ethic and discipline towards standard compliance