Factory Technologist

A leading food manufacturing company is seeking a Factory Technologist to join their Production Department in the south of Cape Town. The ideal candidate will hold a tertiary qualification in Food Science/Technology, bring at least 3 years of industry experience (with 1 year in a leadership role), and demonstrate a strong track record in food safety, quality assurance, and technical process management. Experience in the baking industry and working with Woolworths will be highly advantageous.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Oversee technical operations within the Cake Production Department to ensure compliance with food safety and quality standards.

• Maintain and continuously improve the Food Safety Management System, HACCP, GMPs, and FSSC22000.

• Ensure all products meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements.

• Lead investigations into customer complaints, analyse trends, and implement corrective and preventative measures.

• Lead and manage the Quality Control (QC) team, assigning tasks, monitoring performance, and providing guidance.

• Foster a culture of accountability, attention to detail, and continuous improvement.

• Facilitate training to ensure staff remain aligned with best practices and compliance standards.

• Monitor production processes to ensure consistency and identify risks or deviations.

• Implement corrective and preventative actions to maintain product quality.

• Review and approve product specifications, recipes, and process controls.

• Support new product development and ensure technical accuracy in production.

• Prepare for and manage internal and external audits, ensuring full compliance.

• Maintain accurate documentation and reporting for regulatory and customer requirements.

• Drive ongoing improvements across quality and safety systems.

• Liaise with customers, including Woolworths, to ensure specifications and standards are met.

• Provide technical support and respond to customer queries and feedback.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, R&D, and management teams.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric

• Tertiary Qualification in Food Science/Technology (Post-graduate qualification advantageous)

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in the food industry/manufacturing sector (with at least 1 year in leadership)

• Baking industry experience (advantageous)

• Experience with Woolworths (advantageous)

• Strong knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, HACCP, GMP, and FSSC22000

• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills

• Attention to detail, assertiveness, and ability to work independently and in a team

Ready to take the lead in driving food safety and quality in a top-tier manufacturing environment?

RPO Recruitment can help you secure your next opportunity.
Send your CV to [email protected] or visit rporecruitment.co.za
You can also connect with Joshua Murphy at [email protected] or on LinkedIn.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 3 days. Otherwise, we’ll keep your details on file for future roles.