Senior Lab Analyst at RCL Foods

Job Description    

• RCL FOODS is searching for a Senior Lab Analyst to join the Foods Division  based in Randfontein and report to the Lab Manager. The purpose of the role is to Manage all resources in the laboratory – equipment, employees and product. Ensure strict adherence to Food Safety Standards.

Minimum Requirements    

• NDip Food Technology or equivalent qualification
• Completed training and working experience on ISO 17025
• Training on FSMS advantageous
• Min 2 years hands on experience in the Supervisory position in a laboratory environment.

Knowledge and Skill 

• Proven experience in establishment, implementation and maintenance of ISO 17025 
• Experience in chemistry testing laboratory including thorough knowledge on HPLC/UPLC usage for toxins, Protein analysis, NIR applications, Fat analysis (Soxhlet), PV, FFA, Salt, acidity, 

Duties & Responsibilities    
Manage the following lab activities:

• Product samples
• Collect of samples for analysis as required
• Prepare samples for external testing
• Ensure sufficient retention samples are collected for storage for all products as stipulated

Perform the following analysis accurately according to test methods as provided:

• Analysis of incoming raw materials
• Analysis of intermediate products
• Analysis of final and shelf life products according to product test checklist
• Conducting witness tests for analysis on analysts and students where necessary or as training schedule

Results

• Record results on Database
• Communicate results to relevant HOD’s
• Reporting of Non-Conformances to Quality and Food Safety Systems manager
• Issuing Non-Conformance report for out of specification results
• Follow- up on product place on hold

Trending of results

• Verification of product identification provide by factory
• Perform internal calibrations as per schedule
• Safe handling of equipment as per procedure
• Reporting any failures of machinery 

Problem Solving

• Quality and Food Safety Issues at Randfontein Site
• The challenge inherent within this role is linked to the management of brand integrity, reputation, and risk in terms of food safety, product quality, and branding amongst other areas
• Innovation should be practiced in relation to the minimization of cost and time spent, which suggests a drive towards simpler and more practical approaches to management systems
• Clearance of retention rooms as per schedule
• Establish, implement and maintain lab systems i.e ISO 17025
• Conduct method Validations
• Conduct External & Internal verification.
• Manage the Stock – Consumables, Equipment parts etc.
• Manage orders for Service providers eg Stationary
• Communicate equipment requisitions to Quality and Food Safety Manager.
• Ensure that Lab document control and record keeping is up to date.
• Training of Laboratory staff on methods and procedures

Customer Relationships

Internal

• Liaise with operational teams – plants, procurement, logistics
• Liaise with RCL HO

External

• Regulatory authorities and suppliers. 

Decision Making

• The challenge inherent within this role is linked to the management of brand integrity, reputation and risk in terms of product safety and product quality.
• Innovation should be practiced in relation to minimization of cost and time spent, which suggests a drive towards simpler and more practical approaches to lab systems

Leadership / Supervision 

• Responsible for co-ordinating the activities of the laboratory in-line with required output.
• Responsible for all lab staff.