South Africa: Food Scientist / Production Manager posted by Midvaal Recruitment

February 8, 2026 Jobs in South Africa

Midvaal Recruitment

South Africa

Manufacturing Production

Job Description

Job Title: Food Scientist / Production Manager Distillery Industry

Location: Meyerton

Production Management

Oversee and manage all stages of the distillation and production process (fermentation, distillation, blending, filtration, maturation, and bottling).

Plan and schedule production in line with quality standards, safety regulations, and output targets.

Supervise production staff, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and efficient workflow.

Monitor equipment performance and coordinate maintenance to minimize downtime.

Control raw material usage, yield, and wastage to maintain production efficiency and cost targets.

Food Science & Quality Control

Apply food science and chemistry principles to develop and optimize distillation formulas, fermentation processes, and flavor profiles.

Conduct regular testing of raw materials, intermediates, and final products to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards (HACCP, ISO 22000, etc.).

Manage sensory evaluations and ensure consistency in taste, aroma, and product characteristics.

Investigate and resolve production or quality deviations, implementing corrective and preventive actions.

Work closely with laboratories to ensure analytical accuracy and quality documentation

Product Development & Innovation

Collaborate with R&D teams to create new products, flavor blends, or process improvements.

Research and apply new distillation or fermentation technologies to enhance product quality and production efficiency.

Support brand development through technical input on recipes, ingredients, and processing techniques.

Compliance, Safety & Sustainability

Ensure full compliance with local food safety, health, and environmental regulations (including excise and licensing laws).

Enforce hygiene, sanitation, and occupational health and safety practices throughout the plant.

Drive sustainability initiatives such as water conservation, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

Reporting & Administration

Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly production and quality reports for management.

Manage production budgets, cost control, and inventory planning.

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Participate in audits, supplier evaluations, and continuous improvement programs (Lean, 5S, etc.)

Qualifications & Skills:

Bachelors degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology or related field (Masters preferred for senior roles).

Experience in fermentation/distillation processes is a plus.

Strong lab skills, analytical instruments experience.

Knowledge of food safety standards, regulatory environments.

Good problem-solving, communication, teamwork.

Kindly send detailed CV, Certificates, and ID copy to .za

Use reference number MID586

How to Apply

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

About Manufacturing Production Jobs in South Africa

Manufacturing production positions are a vital component of the South African economy, with various industries relying on skilled professionals to oversee and optimize their production processes. Typically, this field is characterized by a moderate job market growth rate, driven by increasing demand for goods and services from domestic and international markets. Generally, job seekers in this sector can expect to find opportunities across a range of industry sectors, including manufacturing, processing, and food production.

The typical salary range for manufacturing production positions in South Africa varies widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. While it is difficult to provide an exact figure, a broad estimate would be in the range of R500 000 to R1 500 000 per annum, with senior or specialized roles potentially exceeding this range. However, it is essential to note that actual salaries may vary significantly, and job seekers should research specific companies and industry sectors to understand the prevailing market rates.

Common skills required for manufacturing production positions include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, effective communication skills, and experience with quality control and assurance processes. Other valuable skills may include proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, inventory management systems, or statistical process control (SPC). Oftentimes, job seekers with a bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology, or a related field are well-suited for these roles.

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Manufacturing production positions can be found across various industry sectors, including the manufacturing sector, where companies produce goods such as machinery, equipment, and components. Other common sectors include the food processing industry, which produces packaged foods and beverages, and the chemical industry, which manufactures a range of products, including plastics, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals.

Career development opportunities for manufacturing production professionals are generally good, with many companies investing in employee training and development programs. Typically, job seekers can expect to progress through roles such as quality control supervisor or operations manager, before potentially taking on senior leadership positions or moving into specialized fields, such as supply chain management or innovation consulting.

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

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