Food Safety Technician

Company: PepsiCo

About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed more than one billion times a day in over 200 countries and territories. In 2021, PepsiCo generated over $79 billion in net revenue through its portfolio of beverages and convenient foods, including iconic brands such as Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. Guided by PepsiCo Positive (pep+), the company integrates sustainability and human capital into its strategy to create value while driving positive impact for people and the planet.

In South Africa, PepsiCo products are available across all occasions—from breakfast to dinner, at the gym, on the field, or in the office. Key brands include Simba, Lay’s, Liqui Fruit, and Bokomo cereals. PepsiCo SA employs over 13,000 people across Bakeries, Grains, Foods, Fruit, Snacks, Juice & Beverages.

Responsibilities

• Implement, maintain, and continuously improve the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) to meet AIB, FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP, and BRC standards.

• Manage documentation, including document control systems, Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA), and regulatory compliance.

• Coordinate and conduct internal audits, monthly AIB audits, and ensure timely closure of findings.

• Champion food safety culture, promoting awareness and continuous improvement among employees.

• Lead the validation and monitoring of Critical Control Points (CCPs) to ensure hazard control and HACCP compliance.

• Maintain site hygiene and enforce GMP best practices across all staff and facility operations.

• Facilitate food safety training, inductions, and ongoing competency development for staff.

• Support succession building by involving potential candidates in audits, projects, and FS culture initiatives.

• Align food safety practices with health and safety policies, participating in risk prevention and identification.

• Collaborate with project teams to assess food safety risks for facility or process changes.

• Assist the Quality Control Manager with special projects and New Product Development (NPD) activities.

• Monitor performance metrics, including completion of customer questionnaires, NCRs, CPARs, audits, hygiene inspections, and FS culture initiatives.

• Drive FSQ culture engagement through quarterly reviews and continuous improvement programs.

Qualifications

• Relevant three-year tertiary qualification in Food Technology, Microbiology, or related field.

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in manufacturing management, preferably in the food industry.

• Strong microbiological knowledge applicable to food safety and hygiene.

• In-depth understanding of GMP, AIB, and FSSC 22000 standards and their practical application.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Excel and PowerPoint; SAP knowledge advantageous.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify risks, determine root causes, and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.

• Excellent communication and training skills, with the ability to engage staff at all levels on food safety practices.

This role provides the opportunity to ensure the highest food safety standards, drive compliance, and cultivate a culture of quality and safety excellence across the Upington Dried Fruit Plant.