Job Description
Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Quality Control Technician (Microbiology) to join our Quality and Food Safety team. In this role, you will support microbiological testing and environmental monitoring to ensure the safety, quality, and regulatory compliance of our cocoa-based products—including cocoa powder, liquor, and butter. You will work closely with laboratory and production teams to uphold high standards of food safety and product integrity.
Microbiological Testing & Sample Management
- Prepare and handle raw materials, in-process, finished products, and environmental samples following aseptic techniques.
- Conduct routine and non-routine microbiological tests such as Total Plate Count (TPC), Yeasts and Molds, Enterobacteriaceae, Salmonella spp., and other indicator or pathogenic organisms.
- Operate laboratory equipment including incubators, autoclaves, colony counters, etc.
- Ensure test results are accurate, repeatable, and compliant with specifications.
Environmental Monitoring
- Carry out scheduled sampling of production and hygiene-sensitive areas (air, surfaces, equipment, personnel).
- Analyse environmental samples, record deviations, and escalate abnormal findings to the Microbiology Supervisor.
Data Management & Reporting
- Record test observations, results, and deviations accurately in laboratory logs or digital systems.
- Perform timely data entry in MES or LIMS (if applicable).
- Highlight out-of-specification results and support root cause analysis (RCA), corrective actions (CAPA), and related documentation.
Laboratory Maintenance & Safety
- Maintain laboratory hygiene through routine cleaning, disinfection, and equipment upkeep.
- Follow biosafety standards and PPE requirements.
- Report equipment issues, safety hazards, or non‑conformances promptly.
Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Adhere to SOPs, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and internal quality standards.
- Assist with method validation, equipment qualification, and inter-laboratory comparisons.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance laboratory efficiency and testing accuracy.
- Mentor new technicians on laboratory procedures and best practices.
Requirements
- Fresh graduates or candidates with 1–2 years of relevant laboratory experience are welcome.
- Minimum O‑level, Nitec, or Diploma in Food Science, Microbiology, or related field.
- Experience in microbiological testing within the food industry is advantageous.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
- Preferred: Basic SAP knowledge and familiarity with laboratory safety procedures.
