Quality Reliever-1

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

Tiger Brands Beverages is seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented and technically capable Seasonal Measurement & Testing Analyst to support the Quality team during the peak production period. This fixed-term role provides critical laboratory and quality support across Sensory, Microbiology, Water, Raw Materials and Packaging testing activities to ensure product quality, food safety, compliance and operational continuity.
The successful candidate will be responsible for executing approved sampling and testing plans, conducting microbiological, physical, chemical and sensory evaluations, interpreting results accurately, and escalating any deviations or non-conformances in line with site procedures. The role also supports daily taste panels, raw material and packaging release decisions, Oracle stock blocking/release activities, internal audit preparation, NCR logging and closure tracking, food safety investigations, GEMBA walkabouts, SRO reporting and continuous improvement activities.
This position requires a disciplined individual who can work accurately under pressure, follow strict laboratory protocols, maintain excellent records, and collaborate effectively with operators, technicians, analysts, managers and other site stakeholders. The role is well suited to a candidate with a Diploma or Degree in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Food Science or a related scientific field, with previous FMCG, food, beverage or laboratory experience being highly advantageous.
Key measures of success include 100% on-time completion of assigned testing plans, accurate reporting, immediate escalation of non-conformances, no overdue Oracle stock blocks or releases attributable to delays, and strong contribution to audit readiness through complete and reliable record keeping.
This is a 3-month fixed-term seasonal contract, with working hours aligned to site production requirements, including shift work and possible weekend support

Purpose of the Role

The Seasonal Measurement & Testing Analyst is a critical role designed to provide capacity and support to our production teams. You will be an integral part of the Quality team, responsible for executing key measurement, testing, and reporting activities across our Sensory, Microbiology, and Raw Material laboratories. Your work will directly ensure we maintain the highest standards of product quality, food safety, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Laboratory Testing & Analysis (Core Focus)

• Execute the daily sensory, water, and microbiological sampling plans with precision.
• Perform analysis on micro samples, accurately interpret results, and promptly escalate any deviations or out-of-specification findings.
• Conduct physical, chemical, and sensory evaluation of raw materials, reporting any non-conformances immediately.
• Participate in daily taste panel sessions, documenting sensory performance of our products against established standards.

2. Quality Systems & Compliance Support

• Assist in internal audits (lab, production floor, 3rd party manufacturers) by preparing samples, documentation, and reports.
• Support the management of Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) by logging issues, tracking closure actions, and communicating findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Take ownership of blocking or releasing raw materials and packaging on our Oracle system based on test results, preventing production delays.

3. Food Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Actively participate in GEMBA walkabouts and safety observations to promote a culture of quality and safety.
• Support food safety incident investigations by ensuring timely sample collection, analysis, and communication of results.
• Raise and close SROs (Safety, Environment, and Quality observations) as identified.

4. Investigation & Support

• Assist in process/raw materials non-conformance, process incident and customer complaint investigations by supporting shift and day teams, sampling and data collation when required.
• Help communicate investigation findings and support the implementation of corrective actions.
• Facilitate sustainable implementation of  the corrective actions and training of operators when required

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Your success in this role will be measured against:

• Accuracy & Timeliness: 100% on-time completion of assigned testing plans with zero procedural errors.
• Effective Escalation: Immediate reporting of non-conformances and deviations per standard operating procedures.
• System Integrity: Zero overdue stock blocks/releases in Oracle attributable to delays.
• Audit Readiness: Contribution to successful internal and external audits through meticulous record-keeping.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• A Diploma or preferably a Degree in Chemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related scientific field.
• Proven ability to follow strict laboratory protocols with a high degree of accuracy.
• Strong computer skills, particularly in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Highly Advantageous:

• Previous hands-on experience in a laboratory or quality control role within the food, beverage, or FMCG industry.
• Practical knowledge of quality systems such as ISO 22000, FSSC 22000, HACCP, and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).
• Experience using an ERP system like Oracle or SAP.

Candidate Profile & Competencies

We are looking for a candidate who demonstrates:

• Meticulous Attention to Detail: You spot inconsistencies that others might miss.
• Proactive & Hands-On: You are a self-starter who takes initiative in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong Team Player: You collaborate effectively with operators, technicians, and managers alike.
• Resilience Under Pressure: You maintain accuracy and composure during peak production periods.
• Integrity & Accountability: You take ownership of your responsibilities and understand the critical importance of food safety.

Contract Details

• Duration: This is a fixed-term, seasonal contract for a period of 3 months.
• Hours: Working hours will be aligned with the site's production schedule (in this case shifts, may include weekends if applicable).

In accordance with the employment equity plan of Tiger Brands and its employment equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited, to candidates from under-represented designated groups.