Microbiologist – Food Safety & Quality Assurance

About the role

Our client, a leading food manufacturing company, is looking for a Microbiologist to support food safety, quality assurance and laboratory compliance. The role involves performing microbiological testing, environmental monitoring and ensuring results meet FSQMS, ISO/IEC 17025 and regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities

• Perform microbiological analysis on raw materials, in‑process and finished products.
• Test for pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria and indicator organisms (TPC, coliforms, yeast & moulds).
• Conduct environmental monitoring including swabs, air quality and personnel hygiene checks.
• Maintain SOP adherence, sample traceability and chain‑of‑custody.
• Operate, calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment, reporting any faults.
• Record and report results in compliance with ALCOA+ principles.
• Support internal audits, proficiency testing and ISO/IEC 17025 implementation.
• Identify deviations, conduct root‑cause analysis and assist with corrective and preventive actions.

Required profile

• BSc in Microbiology, Food Science & Technology, Analytical Chemistry or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a food laboratory, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Hands‑on experience with ISO/IEC 17025 standards, audits and documentation.
• Strong knowledge of microbiological testing methods and laboratory quality systems.

Required skills

• Microbiological testing (pathogen detection, TPC, coliforms, yeast & moulds).
• Environmental monitoring (swabs, air quality, personnel hygiene).
• ISO/IEC 17025 implementation and compliance.
• Laboratory SOP adherence and ALCOA+ data recording.
• Sample collection, labeling, storage and traceability.
• Laboratory equipment operation and calibration.
• Root‑cause analysis and CAPA.
• Internal audits and proficiency testing.

What we offer

• Competitive gross salary of Ksh 45,000 per month.
• Opportunity to work in a well‑established food brand environment.
• Professional development in food safety and quality assurance.