Laboratory Technician

Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited (ETF) is jointly owned by Zambia Fruit Company and Vitaplus Foods Limited, under the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The Company operates a hybrid fruit and vegetable processing plant located in Katete District, Eastern Province of Zambia.

Role Overview:

The Laboratory Technician is responsible for conducting a variety of tests and analyses on raw materials, in-process goods, and finished products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. This role is crucial for monitoring product integrity, supporting the Food Technologist, and maintaining accurate quality control records.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

• Collect and prepare samples from raw materials, in-process batches, and finished products for laboratory testing.
• Conduct routine physical, chemical, and microbiological tests to ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instruments such as pH meters, spectrophotometers, moisture analyzers, and incubators.
• Calibrate and verify laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and adherence to SOPs.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and report malfunctions to the supervisor promptly.
• Accurately document test procedures, results, and observations in laboratory logbooks or electronic systems.
• Generate routine reports for Quality Control and Production teams highlighting any non-conformances.
• Maintain records for traceability, regulatory audits, and internal reporting.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory hygiene, safety protocols, and proper PPE usage.
• Support Production and Quality Assurance teams by providing technical input on quality trends and troubleshooting.
• Participate in internal audits and implement corrective and preventive actions where required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality and operational efficiency.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma in Food Science, Chemistry, Microbiology, Laboratory Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on laboratory experience in a food processing or manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with food safety and quality standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and ZABS.
• Membership with a recognized professional regulatory body
• Proven experience in performing quality control tests and operating lab equipment.

Application Process:

Qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to the success of Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited and are willing to be based in Katete District, Eastern Province, should submit their applications online by clicking or typing in the web browser and completing the online form below:

www.idc.co.zm/careers/job-vacancies

The deadline for receiving applications shall be 30th September 2025.

Eastern Tropical Fruits Limited is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.