Western Cape Fruit Processors (WCFP) is inviting qualified and dedicated candidates to apply for the position of Lab Technician within the Quality Assurance Department based in Grabouw, Western Cape. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are passionate about food quality, laboratory testing, and maintaining high food safety standards within the fruit processing industry.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Lab Supervisor and will play a critical role in ensuring that all products consistently comply with quality standards, customer expectations, food safety regulations, and industry requirements. Candidates with strong analytical skills, laboratory experience, and attention to detail are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
Position Details
Position: Lab Technician
Department: Quality Assurance
Location: Grabouw, Western Cape
Industry: Food Processing / Fruit Processing
Closing Date: 05 June 2026
About the Role
The Lab Technician position forms part of the Quality Assurance team responsible for maintaining laboratory operations and ensuring accurate analytical and microbiological testing of products and materials. The role requires an individual who can work effectively in a laboratory environment while maintaining compliance with food safety and laboratory quality standards.
The selected candidate will perform routine laboratory tests on raw materials, in-process samples, finished products, and environmental samples. The position also requires strong recordkeeping abilities, equipment maintenance knowledge, and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining precision and accuracy.
This role is suited to candidates who have experience in ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories and possess a good understanding of food safety systems such as HACCP and GMP.
Key Responsibilities
The Lab Technician will be responsible for a wide range of laboratory and quality assurance duties, including analytical testing, microbiological analysis, equipment maintenance, and data recording.
Routine Laboratory Testing
The successful candidate will conduct routine analytical and microbiological testing on various samples, including:
- Raw materials
- In-process production samples
- Finished products
- Environmental samples
Testing procedures will help ensure that all products meet internal quality standards as well as customer and regulatory requirements.
Analytical Testing Procedures
The role involves performing several laboratory tests, including but not limited to:
- pH testing
- Acidity analysis
- Brix measurements
- Turbidity testing
- Moisture analysis
- Microbial analysis
Accurate testing and reporting are essential to maintain product consistency and food safety standards throughout the production process.
Sample Collection
The Lab Technician will collect sterile and chemical samples for laboratory analysis. Proper sample handling procedures must be followed at all times to prevent contamination and ensure reliable test results.
Data Recording and Reporting
A major responsibility of the role includes recording, analysing, and reporting test results accurately and within required timeframes. Proper documentation is critical for quality assurance audits and traceability purposes.
The candidate must demonstrate excellent attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records in line with laboratory standards.
Laboratory Equipment Maintenance
The position requires regular calibration, verification, and maintenance of laboratory equipment to ensure reliable testing results. Equipment must be maintained according to standard operating procedures and quality requirements.
The successful candidate will also monitor laboratory environmental conditions and report any deviations that may affect laboratory operations or product quality.
Quality and Production Support
The Lab Technician will assist with troubleshooting quality-related production issues. This includes identifying possible causes of quality deviations and supporting corrective action processes where required.
The role contributes significantly to maintaining high production standards and minimizing product defects or contamination risks.
Compliance and Food Safety
Strict adherence to food safety and laboratory quality standards is essential in this role. The successful candidate must ensure compliance with:
- ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
- HACCP principles
- GMP standards
- Food Safety regulations
- Health and Safety requirements
Maintaining compliance helps ensure that products remain safe for consumers and meet industry expectations.
Laboratory Improvement Activities
The role also involves participation in:
- Proficiency testing
- Method verification
- Validation activities
These activities help maintain laboratory accuracy, consistency, and compliance with international standards.
Laboratory Information Management
The successful candidate will maintain laboratory records and update information on the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Computer literacy and familiarity with laboratory systems are important for this aspect of the role.
Stock Control
Additional duties include assisting with laboratory stock control and consumable management to ensure the laboratory remains fully operational at all times.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates applying for this opportunity must possess one of the following qualifications:
- Diploma in Food Science
- Degree in Food Science
- Diploma or Degree in Chemistry
- Diploma or Degree in Microbiology
- Diploma or Degree in Biotechnology
- Qualification in a related scientific field
Relevant qualifications must be submitted together with the application.
Experience Requirements
Applicants must have at least three years of experience working in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory environment.
Experience in analytical and microbiological testing methods is essential for this role. Previous experience within the food, beverage, or fruit processing industry will be considered advantageous.
Candidates with practical knowledge of laboratory procedures, food safety systems, and quality management processes will have an added advantage during the selection process.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Western Cape Fruit Processors is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following abilities and competencies:
Analytical Skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are important for identifying quality issues and ensuring accurate laboratory testing.
Attention to Detail
The role requires a high level of accuracy and precision when performing tests, recording data, and maintaining laboratory documentation.
Communication Skills
Good communication and teamwork skills are essential, as the Lab Technician will work closely with laboratory personnel, production teams, and supervisors.
Computer Literacy
Applicants must be computer literate and should have experience working with laboratory information systems such as LIMS.
Ability to Work Under Pressure
The laboratory environment may involve strict deadlines and high workloads. Candidates must be capable of managing priorities and working effectively under pressure.
Independent Work Capability
The successful candidate should be able to work independently while maintaining high standards of productivity and accuracy.
Location Requirement
Applicants must currently reside in the Grabouw area or be able to commute to Grabouw daily. Reliable transportation and punctuality are important due to the operational nature of the role.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Laboratory professionals play a vital role in maintaining food safety and quality within the food processing industry. This position offers an opportunity to work in a quality-driven environment where scientific knowledge and laboratory expertise contribute directly to product excellence and consumer safety.
Candidates with a passion for food science, microbiology, chemistry, and quality assurance can build valuable experience within an established fruit processing environment.
The role also provides exposure to internationally recognized laboratory standards and food safety systems, making it a valuable career opportunity for laboratory professionals seeking long-term growth within the industry.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copies of relevant qualifications
Applications must be sent via email to:
- Email: [email protected]
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is: 05 June 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Important Notice
If no feedback is received within 30 days after the closing date, the application should be considered unsuccessful.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that all supporting documents are attached and that contact details are updated before submitting applications.