About this role
Dreaming big is in our DNA. It’s who we are as a company. It’s our culture. It’s our heritage. And more than ever, it’s our future. A future where we’re always looking forward. Always serving up new ways to meet life’s moments. A future where we keep dreaming bigger. We look for people with passion, talent, and curiosity, and provide them with the teammates, resources and opportunities to unleash their full potential. The power we create together – when we combine your strengths with ours – is unstoppable. Are you ready to join a team that dreams as big as you do?
The Key Purpose of this role is to ensure the continuous improvement of process and product quality through the effective implementation of microbiological, food safety, hygiene, and quality assurance systems. The role is responsible for monitoring microbiological risks, driving compliance with food safety standards, supporting operational excellence, and providing technical expertise to sustain product quality across the value chain.
Key Roles and Responsibilities:
Process and Product Quality Management
Conduct microbiological sampling, testing, analysis, and verification in accordance with approved procedures and standards.
Ensure the integrity, traceability, and accurate handling of samples throughout the testing process.
Prepare and maintain laboratory equipment, reagents, and testing apparatus as required by standard methods.
Monitor and report on microbiological quality indicators and trends.
Develop, review, and maintain Critical Microbiological Monitoring Points (CMMPs).
Maintain accurate laboratory records and quality documentation.
Participate in the development and monitoring of yeast propagation schedules and ensure compliance.
Conduct Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) inspections and audits.
Develop, review, and maintain microbiological standards, manuals, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Promote quality excellence and food safety awareness throughout the value chain.
Food Safety and Compliance
Support the implementation and maintenance of food safety management systems.
Monitor plant hygiene standards and recommend corrective actions where required.
Ensure compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and food safety policies.
Identify microbiological risks and implement preventive and corrective measures.
Support internal and external food safety audits.
Technical Support and Continuous Improvement
Assess technical requirements and provide expert microbiological and food safety advice.
Support the implementation of improvement initiatives arising from audits, investigations, and quality reviews.
Ensure the availability and reliability of measuring equipment and testing materials.
Use Statistical Process Control (SPC) and trend analysis to identify improvement opportunities.
Investigate microbiological non-conformances and drive corrective and preventive actions.
Lead root cause analysis and problem-solving initiatives related to microbiological quality issues.
Laboratory Equipment Management
Develop and maintain equipment maintenance schedules.
Ensure calibration and verification activities are performed according to required frequencies.
Maintain up-to-date maintenance, calibration, and validation records.
Monitor and improve equipment reliability and availability.
Stakeholder Communication and Reporting
Communicate microbiological and quality information to relevant stakeholders in a timely manner.
Prepare and distribute microbiological reports, trends, and performance summaries.
Participate in operational meetings and provide quality performance updates.
Document meeting outcomes and track closure of quality-related action items.
Team Leadership and Capability Development
Facilitate problem-solving and decision-making activities within laboratory and production teams.
Coach and support laboratory technicians, operators, and production teams on microbiological and food safety requirements.
Identify training needs and support the development of competency improvement plans.
Promote teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.
Key Competencies:
Technical Competencies
Microbiology testing and laboratory techniques
Food safety management systems
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Quality Management Systems (QMS)
Data analysis and trend interpretation
Laboratory equipment calibration and maintenance
Audit and compliance management
Behavioral Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Attention to detail and accuracy
Effective communication and reporting skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Coaching and people development
Initiative and continuous improvement mindset
Decision-making capability
Planning and organizing skills
Accountability and ownership
Customer and quality focus
Minimum Requirements:
National Diploma or bachelor's degree in microbiology, Food Science, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Food Technology, or a related scientific discipline
Minimum 2-5 years' experience in a food manufacturing, beverage, FMCG, or laboratory environment.
Experience in microbiological testing and food safety systems.
Experience with GMP, HACCP, and quality management systems.
Experience in laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration will be advantageous.
Additional Information:
Band: VIII
ABInBev is an equal opportunity employer, and all appointments will be made in line with ABInBev employment equity plan and talent requirements. The advert has minimum requirements listed. Management reserves the right to use additional/ relevant information as criteria for short-listing.
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