Laboratory Manager

SUMMARY:
A large Food Manufacturing company situated in City Deep in Johannesburg is seeking a Laboratory Manager to join their Dynamic Team.  The candidate MUST have 3 years of experience as a Senior Laboratory Technician or Manager of a Laboratory within a Food Manufacturing or food production environment.

POSITION INFO:
Job Purpose: -
To lead and manage the laboratory operations in a food production plant, ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and compliance of all laboratory testing in accordance with food safety standards, company policies, and customer requirements. The Laboratory Manager plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the food safety and quality assurance systems across the plant.

Key Responsibilities: -

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., ISO 17025, FSSC 22000, HACCP).
• Supervise and develop laboratory staff, including training, performance management, and competency assessments.
• Ensure all testing (microbiological, chemical, and physical) is carried out efficiently and results are accurately recorded and communicated.
• Implement and maintain laboratory documentation, procedures, and quality systems.
• Oversee calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensure all instruments are operating optimally.
• Interpret and review analytical results, troubleshoot deviations, and initiate corrective actions when necessary.
• Participate in internal and external audits, ensuring readiness and compliance at all times.
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Procurement departments to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain adequate inventory levels of laboratory reagents, consumables, and equipment.
• Be available to work shifts on an adhoc basis to support production demands.
• Be available for stock take weekends every second month, ensuring all laboratory inputs and consumables are accurately accounted for.
• Drive a culture of food safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the
  laboratory team.

• 3 years of experience as a senior Laboratory Technician or Manager of a Laboratory within a food manufacturing or food production environment

• Microbiology qualification and experience with microbiology analyses and management
• 5 to 8 years’ experience working in a food production laboratory environment, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety systems, regulatory compliance, and laboratory best practices.
• Experience with laboratory quality management systems (ISO 17025 preferred).
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficient in MS Office and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including adhoc shifts and every second-month stock take weekends
• Knowledge of SANS 17025 or laboratory management systems

• Advanced proficiency in MS PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Strong knowledge of food safety practices, GMP, and hygiene standards

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• High energy levels, reliability, and a target-driven approach.
• Ability to motivate and influence others positively.

• Must be flexible with work hours, including early starts and shift work.
• Must be willing to work long hours as required by operational demands.
• Must have own reliable transport

• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on compliance and best practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Leadership and people development.
• Quality and compliance focus.
• Planning and organisational skills.
• Communication and teamwork.
• Analytical thinking and decision-making.
• Adaptability and resilience.