Parmalat is currently recruiting for a Production Controller to join our team in yoghurt manufacturing. This role is responsible for overseeing the milk receiving, processing, and production operations to ensure smooth workflow, minimal downtime, and adherence to quality and food safety standards. The Production Controller plays a key role in maintaining efficient production processes while aligning operations with evolving business requirements and continuous improvement targets.

This opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented and proactive individual with experience in dairy manufacturing and a solid understanding of food processing systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of milk receiving, processing, and yoghurt production departments to ensure efficient and uninterrupted workflows.

• Manage and control the entire yoghurt base production process including mixing, pasteurization, inoculation, fermentation, cooling, and transfer to filling lines.

• Ensure all relevant production and quality documentation is completed accurately and in line with internal systems.

• Monitor utilities and services such as steam, water, ice water, electricity, and air systems to ensure operational reliability.

• Minimise fat and protein losses by using protein solver tools accurately and adhering to material consumption targets.

• Maintain detailed and accurate documentation to support GMP Mass Balance, MMS, and BPCS systems.

• Collaborate with the Analytical Lab to ensure accurate fat and protein analysis for GMP Mass Balance reporting; knowledge of FT1 and Food Scan is essential.

• Schedule and control maintenance of processing equipment to avoid downtime and product loss.

• Ensure bulk base losses remain within acceptable scrap factors.

• Comply with FSSC 22000 food safety standards, including management of all CIP, validations, verifications, and related documentation.

• Utilize SCADA and PLC systems for process control and monitoring.

• Participate in internal and external audits including FSSC 22000, GMP, NOSA, and Agri audits.

• Lead troubleshooting initiatives, document non-conformances, and implement corrective actions.

• Remain responsive to business changes and support continuous improvement in yoghurt manufacturing processes.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum Matric qualification.

• A qualification in Dairy Manufacturing is required.

• A tertiary qualification such as a National Diploma or equivalent in Biotechnology, Food Science, or a related field is advantageous.

• At least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing or processing environment, preferably in the FMCG sector.

• Strong computer literacy and familiarity with process control systems.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proven ability to work as part of a team and contribute to a high-performance production environment.

This role is essential to maintaining operational excellence in yoghurt production. Candidates with a strong understanding of dairy processing, quality systems, and equipment control are encouraged to apply.

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