Cape Town Region: Laboratory Technician posted by West Coast Personnel

January 29, 2026 Jobs in Cape Peninsula

West Coast Personnel

Western Cape

Scientific / QA

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Laboratory Technician to join our team in Cape Town. As a key member of our quality control department, you will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in our dairy and juice products. With a strong foundation in chemistry, microbiology, or food technology, you will play a critical role in analyzing raw materials, testing products, and implementing best practices to optimize laboratory operations.

Key Responsibilities

Perform chemical analysis on raw milk, pasteurized milk, cream, buttermilk, yogurt, and dairy blends
Analyze parameters such as pH, butterfat, protein stability, sugar content (Brix), viscosity, texture, and total solids
Conduct titrations for CIP and COP chemical strength verification
Test for antibiotics using rapid and confirmatory methods and reject products if tests fail
Complete Product Release documentation and issue release slips based on test results
Conduct microbiological analyses on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods
Plate samples as per SOPs and monitor microbial development overnight
Evaluate results against standards and report deviations immediately
Perform additional tests as required for over-developed samples
Collect and store daily production samples for retention and shelf-life testing
Organize and maintain retention samples and remove outdated samples
Perform organoleptic and shelf-life tests upon expiry or for customer complaints
Analyze drain water/effluent samples for pH and COD to ensure compliance with environmental standards

Requirements

Post-matric qualification in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Technology, or Agriculture
Strong foundation in Mathematics and Science
Experience in laboratory testing within a production or FMCG environment
Familiarity with quality control, quality assurance, and food safety standards
Ability to communicate effectively and maintain accurate records

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Qualifications

Completed post-matric qualification in Chemistry, Microbiology, Food Technology, or Agriculture

Salary & Benefits

[Salary range: Market-related salary] [No comprehensive benefits package mentioned in original]

Decision-Making Authority

Stop production if products fail to meet specifications
Request additional samples to verify test results
Inform supervisors of non-compliant products immediately

How to Apply

Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.

About Scientific / QA Jobs in Western Cape

The Western Cape region is home to a thriving tech industry, with a growing demand for skilled professionals in scientific and quality assurance (QA) roles. Typically, these positions are found in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and financial services, where attention to detail and analytical skills are highly valued. Generally, career opportunities in this field are relatively stable, with ongoing growth driven by the need for innovative solutions and product development.

Salaries for scientific and QA professionals in the Western Cape vary widely depending on factors like experience, company size, and industry sector. While it is common to earn a salary between R600 000 and R1 200 000 per annum, actual figures can differ significantly based on individual circumstances. For example, roles in larger corporations or those with advanced degrees may command higher salaries, while entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range.

Common skills required for scientific and QA roles include a strong foundation in maths and science, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. Typically, proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R is highly valued, as well as experience with statistical software and data analysis tools. Additionally, knowledge of regulatory frameworks and quality management systems is often essential for professionals working in industries like pharmaceuticals or biotechnology.

The Western Cape’s technology industry is a significant driver of job creation, with many multinationals, including Google and Microsoft, having a presence in the region. Financial services companies also employ a large number of QA professionals to ensure the integrity and accuracy of their products and services. Manufacturing firms, on the other hand, rely on scientific expertise to develop innovative solutions and improve product quality.

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Career progression for scientific and QA professionals can be advanced through experience, continuous learning, and professional development opportunities. Typically, roles start as junior analysts or scientists before progressing to senior positions, such as lead analyst or team manager. Opportunities for advancement may also arise through relocation to larger cities or companies, or by pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in specialized fields.

This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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