26 Lab Technician jobs in South Africa

We're looking for a passionate and detail-oriented individual to join our Food Technology Lab. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on, experimental environment and is eager to contribute to innovative food product development, testing, and quality assurance.

Job Description

As a Food Technologist / Lab Technician, you will be responsible for supporting the development, testing, and refinement of food products and processes. Your work will directly impact product safety, quality, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory tests on food samples for quality, safety, and nutritional content
• Assist in the formulation and development of new food products
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and formulations
• Operate and calibrate lab equipment (e.g., pH meters, moisture analyzers, spectrophotometers)
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and internal standards
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams
• Prepare samples for sensory evaluation and shelf-life testing
• Monitor and document environmental conditions in the lab
• Assist in sourcing and testing new ingredients or packaging materials

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Diploma or Degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or related field
• 1–3 years of experience in a food lab or production environment (entry-level applicants with strong academic background will be considered)

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and safety standards
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP protocols
• Excellent attention to detail and record-keeping
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic lab software

Bonus Skills (Not Required):

• Experience with sensory analysis panels
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP implementation
• Knowledge of plant-based or alternative protein formulations
• Familiarity with regulatory submissions or product labeling

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person

Purpose:

Assure all Quality activities are performed according to BOS-, TS 16 949-, ISO 9000 standards and specific customer requirements. Develop and maintains test instructions.

Responsibilities:

Plan and execute all necessary measurements in the lab

Experience in writing measuring programmes.

Conduct various testing functions within the laboratory environment according to international standards.

Manage gauge and test equipment calibration system

Perform calibration

Perform R&R studies and performs wear trend analyses

Assure compliance to ISO / IEC 17025 standard

Manage Product Audits within plant

Ensure that continuous improvement is made in all Production MEQ Quality Deliverables (e.g.:

RPPM, CPPM, IPPM, SPPM, Quality Costs, Customer Product Audits and Warranty / JD Power)

Ensure that customer and internally identified quality issues are resolved using the company problem solving methods (8D Report, Problem Solving Document “PSD”, PCAD, Kepner-Tregoe, etc.)

Prepare necessary corrective / preventive actions, follow up, verify and release of actions.

Execute any reasonable request from Quality Manager.

Requirements:

A Bachelor´s degree is required (or equivalent experience)

Specific education and training in Quality disciplines including as a minimum QS9000,

Continuous Improvement, Total Quality Management, PPAP, FMEA, Control plans, DOE and SPC are also required

Minimum 5 years in automotive industry, minimum 3 years in quality area.

Listing reference: ukzn_

Listing status: Online

Apply by: 23 October 2025

Position summary

Industry: Education & Training

Job category: Others: Education and Training

Location: Durban

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: Yes

Introduction

The incumbent will undertake general sample processing of HIV positive blood samples; freeze and catalogue cells; prepare reagents; assist the senior researcher and his team with experiments, quality control and data verification; and will carry out general laboratory housekeeping, including temperature monitoring and equipment maintenance.

Job description

• The incumbent should have hands-on experience in general molecular biology techniques, for example: DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, sequencing, sequence analysis, FACS analysis and tissue culture, which includes

culturing, transfection and infection of primary cells and cell lines

• Have experience working in a biomedical research laboratory (exclusive of lab time related to the completion of an Honours research project)
• Be familiar with biomedical research laboratory procedures and safety requirements
• Have Good computer literacy (Microsoft Office)

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist senior researcher and team with experiments, quality control and data verification
• Undertake general sample processing of HIV positive blood samples
• Freezing and cataloguing of cells, as required
• Preparation of reagents
• Maintenance of equipment
• Temperature monitoring of equipment
• General laboratory housekeeping
• Health and safety checks of laboratory, as required
• Participation in the department's various academic activities – journal club, lab meetings,

quality improvement meetings and audits, etc.

• Prepared to work after hours, as required

Minimum requirements

• BSc Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant biomedical field
• Hands-on experience in general molecular biology techniques, for example: DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, cloning, sequencing, sequence analysis, FACS analysis and tissue culture, which includes culturing, transfection and infection of primary cells and cell lines
• Minimum one-year experience working in a biomedical research laboratory (exclusive of lab time related to the completion of an Honours research project)
• Familiarity with biomedical research laboratory procedures and safety requirements
• Good computer literacy (Microsoft Office).

Enquiries regarding this post and requests for the job profile may be directed to Mrs Tarryn Tomlinson (HPP's Grants & Administration Manager),

Terms of appointment and Selection Process:

The post will be offered on a one-year, fixed term contract. The terms and conditions governing this appointment will be in compliance with those of the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The monthly cost of employment for this position will be R17,000 – R17,500, dependent on the experience of the successful candidate.

The closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday, 23 October 2025. The University, however, reserves the right in special circumstances to accept late applications or to extend the above date in order to facilitate further searches. The selection process will commence in October 2025 and will continue until suitable candidates are appointed or a decision is taken not to fill the posts.

Applicants are required to complete the relevant application form for support staff which is available on the UKZN vacancies webpage, demonstrating specifically how they meet the minimum requirements for the position.

• Prepare and process samples received by the laboratory's standard operating procedures.
• Support with associated research and assist with maintaining a biological repository.
• Maintain cultures for future use.
• Maintain sample information on LIMS and other relevant programs.
• Responsible for general laboratory administrative tasks.
• Responsible for stock control.
• Assist in a variety of research projects.
• Assist in technical preparations (compiling of SOPs, calibrating and servicing of equipment, etc.) necessary for the maintenance of the Quality Management System.

• Prepare and process samples received by the laboratory's standard operating procedures.
• Support with associated research and assist with maintaining a biological repository.
• Maintain cultures for future use.
• Maintain sample information on LIMS and other relevant programs.
• Responsible for general laboratory administrative tasks.
• Responsible for stock control.
• Assist in a variety of research projects.

• Assist in technical preparations (compiling of SOPs, calibrating and servicing of equipment, etc.) necessary for the maintenance of the Quality Management System.

• National Diploma in Microbiology /Biotechnology or related field.

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology /biotechnology or related field will be an added advantage.
• Experience in disease diagnosis, pathogen identification, molecular biology, basic bioinformatics, and biobanking will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• A valid driver's license.

Enquiries: Mrs Puseletso Johnston: Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 24 SEPTEMBER 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver's license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.

• Pro-actively provide technical input within the context of the research projects.
• Provide timeous and reliable data, which supports the objectives of the research project.
• Provide training and supervision to subordinates.
• Participate in data collection, processing and interpretation of results.
• Correctly apply techniques within guidelines/standards/references.
• Ensure cost-effective utilisation of research resources.
• Complete purchase requisitions, obtain quotations and purchasing of required research materials and consumables following the financial prescriptions.
• Compile quarterly progress reports.
• Assist in hosting field days.
• Assist in communication with farmers and extension officers.
• Assist in commercialisation activities.
• Contribute to publications (e.g. popular publications).
• Participate in preparing/ giving presentations (e.g. at farmers' days, training events, conferences, etc.).
• Regulatory Compliance with the Health and Safety procedures

• Contribute towards professional development of subordinates and self.

• MTech. degree in Plant Breeding or Plant Production or related field (Crop Science or Agronomy or Plant Sciences), plus two years relevant experience.

• B. degree or B. Hons degree or B. Tech, or National Higher Diploma in Plant Production or related field (Crop Science or Agronomy or Plant Sciences), plus six years relevant experience.
• National Diploma (3 years) plus eight years relevant experience.
• Ability to set-up and manage research trials under field conditions.
• Experience in plant breeding techniques will be an added advantage.
• Advanced computer literacy (MS Office packages).
• Registration with relevant scientific body will be an added advantage.
• Valid drivers' licence

Enquries: Dr Kingstone Mashingaidze, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 23 OCTOBER 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees must be attached. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

• Deliver technical assistance for research projects in the field of Entomology, as well as diagnostic and other services.
• Responsible for field and laboratory tasks generated by these projects, including trial site preparation, sampling, data collection, inspection of plant material identification of insects and pest control activities.
• The incumbent is, after appropriate training, expected to be able to recognize insect damage symptoms on deciduous fruit and vines in the Western Cape and be able to identify and quantify insects in the field and laboratory materials.
• The incumbent will be expected to plan own work activities, coordinate work activities and supervise allocated HR resources, if applicable.
• The incumbent regularly reports back through verbal/written reports to the supervisor and other project leaders on work activities and results.
• Assist with the delivery of well-customised technology transfer/ training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, training courses and other events according to client needs.

• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.

• National Diploma (3 years) in crop protection and/or crop production or equivalent NQF6 with 3 years applicable experience

• Experience in integrated pest management in the grape and deciduous fruit industry will be an advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Dr. R Knoetze, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

• Prepare samples by freeze-drying and milling before analysis.
• Conduct analysis of chemical nature.
• Chemical analysis will include, but not be limited to, Protein, Crude fibre, Neutral Detergent Fibre, Acid Detergent Fibre, Acid Detergent Lignin, dietary fibre, etc.
• Correctly apply techniques within specified guidelines.
• Timeously complete technical tasks according to set quality and accreditation standards.
• Efficiently plan and schedule analytical services according to given instructions.
• Cost-effective and accurate sample analysis in compliance with target dates and available resources.
• Accurate, timeous, and reliable reporting of analytical results.
• Cost-effective stock control according to regulations.
• Maintain and ensure that equipment is in working order and in compliance with applicable quality standards.
• Timely reporting of equipment malfunctions.
• Assist in maintaining a clean laboratory in general.
• Maintaining an Occupational and Health Safety laboratory according to Good Laboratory Practice.
• Assist in maintaining the accreditation status, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 of the laboratory.

• Comply with financial policies/procedures.

• Grade 12 (or equivalent NQF 4) with 6 years relevant experience in Analytical Chemistry or Food Science and currently studying towards a diploma/degree with 2 years theory & the progress report.

• A diploma or degree in Analytical Chemistry or Food Science will be an added advantage.
• Good conceptual, analytical, and writing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Deliver accurate and high-quality analysis, paying close attention to detail.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and work systematically.
• Good communication skills.
• The ability to respect and maintain confidentiality.
• Skilled to work as part of the team as well as independently.
• Experience in ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and working in an accredited laboratory will be an advantage.
• In possession of a valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Ms. Boitsheko Mahapa Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 17 SEPTEMBER 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form. SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.

• Deliver technical assistance for research projects in the field of Nematology, as well as diagnostic and other services.
• Responsible for field and laboratory tasks generated by these projects, including trial site preparation, sampling, data collection, plant evaluations, nematode extractions from soil and plant material.
• The incumbent is, after the appropriate training, expected to be able to recognize plant-parasitic nematode damage symptoms on deciduous fruit and vines in the Western Cape and to identify and quantify plant-parasitic nematodes in suspensions extracted from soil and plant materials.
• The incumbent will be expected to plan own work activities, coordinate work activities and supervise allocated resources, if applicable.
• The incumbent regularly reports back through verbal/written reports to the supervisor and other project leaders on work activities and results.
• Assist with the delivery of well-customised technology transfer/ training programs and effective transfer of technology and promotion in the form of products, services, literature, information days, training courses and other events according to client needs.

• Ensure cost-effective maintenance and utilisation of infrastructure through optimal application, maintenance, and effective stock control for execution of research projects.

• National Diploma (3 years) in crop protection and/or crop production or equivalent NQF6 with 3 years applicable experience

• Experience in plant-parasitic nematode management in the grape and deciduous fruit industry will be an advantage.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid SA driver's license.

Enquiries: Dr. R Knoetze, Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 SEPTEMBER 2025

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver's license and at least three contactable referees) must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.