SUMMARY:
Cookhouse Creamery is a proudly South African dairy operation producing high-quality milk, cheese, and butter products. As part of the N2P Group, we are committed to excellence in food safety, product quality, and the development of our people. We are looking for a detail-oriented and dedicated Lab Technician to join our quality assurance team.
The Role
Reporting to the Lab Manager, the Lab Technician plays a critical role in supporting daily production by conducting routine laboratory testing, sampling, and equipment verification. You will ensure that all milk, cheese, butter, and related products consistently meet the required quality and food safety standards.
POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities
Product Testing & Analysis- Conduct microbiological and analytical testing on milk, cheese, butter, cream, and water samples in accordance with approved laboratory methods
- Perform antibiotic testing and phosphate tests on pasteurized milk
- Test incoming products, in-line samples, final products, silos, tankers, and water sources (boiler, condenser, and feed tank water)
- Ensure all testing is performed accurately and within required timeframes
Sampling- Perform sampling of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods
- Conduct green and ripened cheese sampling according to standard procedures
- Assist with external laboratory sample preparation including pathogen testing, Aflatoxin M1 analysis, and COD on effluent water
Results, Reporting & Quality- Record all test results accurately into the EO System within required timeframes
- Submit completed test records to the Lab Manager for verification and filing
- Immediately flag any out-of-specification results and communicate deviations
- Assist in root cause analysis and generate Corrective Action Reports (CARs) for non-conformances
Equipment Calibration & Maintenance- Perform calibration and verification of laboratory equipment including incubators, ovens, refrigerators, water baths, pH meters, balances, thermometers, and Milko Scan
- Report any faulty equipment to the Lab Manager promptly
Food Safety & Health and Safety- Adhere strictly to all food safety work instructions, procedures, and PPE requirements
- Monitor batch numbers and expiry dates of all ingredients used
- Report food safety incidents including pests, glass breakages, and missing end-caps
- Maintain a clean, organised, and audit-ready laboratory environment at all times
- Conduct monthly stock takes of laboratory consumables and report shortages
Requirement Detail
Education : National Diploma in Food Technology, Biotechnology, or Food Science (NQF Level 6); OR a National Certificate in Food Laboratory Practices / Dairy Laboratory Analysis (NQF Level 4)
Experience Minimum 1 year laboratory experience in a dairy environment
Certificate Valid Food Handler Certificate
Computer Literacy Basic (for data capturing and reporting)
A relevant Bachelor's degree (BSc Food Science, Biotechnology, or Microbiology) will be an added advantage.
Personal Attributes
We are looking for someone who is honest, punctual, reliable, and methodical. The ideal candidate is self-disciplined, dedicated, and demonstrates a positive attitude with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for what they do!
