Lab Technician: Micro at International Breweries

The Key Purpose of this role is to carry out specialized analysis in support of production teams, problem solving, continuous improvement initiatives and training.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

SPECIALIST ANALYSIS

• Carry out specialised micro analysis according to standard and the minimum micro sampling plan. Ensure traceability of results and record on appropriate information systems.
• Communicate results clearly and timeously to production teams and stakeholders.
• Conduct ad hoc analysis to assist with problem solving.
• Provide production with good quality, yeast for propagation free of contaminants.
• Management and execution of basic maintenance and calibration schedules on test equipment

QUALITY AUDITING

• Conduct required and requested quality audits, completing the appropriate documentation and communicating the results.
• Review quality analysis procedures for updates when required.
• Where required, initiate corrective actions to close gaps generated by audits.

PROBLEM SOLVING

• Support production teams in problem solving by providing specialist knowledge on micro sampling and techniques.
• Lead, facilitate or take part in problem solving sessions as a functional expert when required.

Key Attributes & Competencies:

TRAINING

• Assist in training, coaching and mentoring of plant personnel on good hygiene practices.
• Take part in the development of training material.
• Complete the competency guide for the micro lab technician role.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

• Carry out specialised analyses in support of the evaluation of continuous improvement opportunities.
• Where required, take part in team evaluations of continuous improvement opportunities.
• Take part in regional and divisional process optimisation initiatives as required.
• Drive the Quality VPO through adhering to the minimum micro sampling plan and standards.
• Support the production teams with problem solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Traceability of samples and accuracy results when reporting to production teams.
• Effectively communicating with all levels of the business and follow up when necessary.
• Working timeously and managing individual workloads effectively to ensure sample frequencies are met.
• Demonstrate Good Lab Practices and adherence to housekeeping (5S), health and safety standards
• Live by the AB InBev principles to drive and ensure compliance to the Quality VPO pillar
• Ability to utilise computer programmes extensively.
• Analytical ability.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and appropriately (written & verbal) with all levels of the organization and work well within a team environment
• Positive attitude
• Mental alertness and display good judgement.
• Problem Solving Skills
• Attention to detail and working with precision and accuracy
• Strong ethic and discipline towards standard compliance
• Demonstrate sound interpersonal skills, including customers and supplier interaction
• Willing to take initiative and a strong bias for action.

Minimum Requirements:

• Microbiology/Biochemistry Diploma/degree, Biotechnology Diploma/degree, Food Technology Diploma/degree
• 2 Years experience in the Food Industry and in a micro laboratory environment is ideal
• Packaging and/or Brewing experience is preferable
• Knowledge of SAP PDM, Microsoft Office packages and LIMS will be an advantage
• May be called on to work overtime as required