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Quality Assurance Technologist - Polokwane at The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company
Full-time
On-site
Job Description


Product quality and food safety testing
Statistical process control and trend analysis
Non-conformance management and RCA
Quality system adherence (FSSC 22000, ISO 9001, KORE)
Laboratory equipment operation and calibration
Support of audits and quality inspections
HACCP and GMP compliance monitoring
Documentation and data integrity
Quality awareness and coaching at line level


Key Duties & Responsibilities
Laboratory and In-Line Quality Control


Conduct analytical, chemical, physical, and microbiological testing of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
Perform quality checks on production lines (Brix, CO2, torque, fill height, appearance, etc.).
Ensure adherence to the Coca-Cola Operating Requirements (KORE) and product specifications.


Process Monitoring and Product Release


Monitor key process parameters and perform real-time interventions where deviations are observed.
Verify that corrective actions are implemented and effective before product release.
Approve or reject product batches based on quality results.


Data Management and Reporting


Record test results accurately and timeously in laboratory systems and quality logs.
Compile and analyse quality trend reports and escalate anomalies.
Maintain sample retention and traceability documentation.


Quality Incident Management


Assist in investigating product and process non-conformances, consumer complaints, or foreign matter incidents.
Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventative actions (CAPA).
Escalate unresolved issues to the Quality Manager.


Calibration and Equipment Maintenance


Ensure laboratory instruments are maintained, calibrated, and used in accordance with SOPs.
Perform routine checks and liaise with equipment service providers when necessary.


Systems and Standards Compliance


Participate in internal and external audits (e.g., FSSC, KORE, customer audits).
Monitor Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), hygiene, and housekeeping compliance.
Support quality system implementation and maintenance (SOPs, work instructions, records).


KBI


First Time Right (FTR) performance (%)
Product Quality Index / Conformance Rate (%)
Number of quality non-conformances (internal and external)
Consumer and customer complaints (per million units)
Laboratory turnaround time and sample throughput
Quality audit findings and closure rates
Equipment calibration compliance (%)
Product release accuracy and rejection rate


Skills, Experience & Education
Education


Minimum: National Diploma in Food Technology, Biotechnology, Analytical Chemistry, or Microbiology
Preferred: BTech or BSc in Food Science, Chemistry, or related discipline
HACCP and ISO/FSSC certifications are advantageous


Experience


1 - 3 years' experience in a quality assurance or laboratory environment in the FMCG or beverage industry
Experience in in-process and final product testing
Exposure to quality management systems (ISO 9001, FSSC 22000)
Experience working in a certified food safety and manufacturing environment


Skills


Proficiency in laboratory testing (chemical, physical, and microbiological techniques)
Strong understanding of GMP, HACCP, and food safety principles
Ability to interpret technical specifications and quality standards
Working knowledge of KORE and regulatory requirements (NRCS, SABS)
Accurate data recording, reporting, and statistical trend analysis
Familiarity with ERP or QMS platforms (SAP, LIMS, Intelex - advantageous)
Microsoft Office proficiency (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Attention to detail, teamwork, and critical thinking skills


Deadline:19th February,2026