RCL Foods, a leading company in the food industry, is offering an exciting opportunity for a Lab Intern to join their dynamic team at the Groceries Business Unit/Division in Randfontein, Gauteng. This internship position presents an excellent opportunity for third-year students who are currently pursuing an N. Diploma in Food Technology, Biotechnology, or a related qualification.
RCL Foods is a company that strives to think bigger, work smarter, and achieve its goal of providing more food to more people, more often. If you are passionate about food technology, quality control, and laboratory analysis, this could be the perfect internship for you!
About RCL Foods
RCL Foods is one of the largest food companies in South Africa, with a focus on creating products that meet the needs of a diverse range of consumers. The company’s core mission revolves around providing safe, affordable, and nutritious food to people every day. They are committed to sustainability, innovation, and community development.
The internship will be based at the company’s Randfontein facility, which is located in the heart of Gauteng. RCL Foods offers an inclusive, dynamic work environment where interns can gain valuable hands-on experience, develop their skills, and build a solid foundation for their careers in the food industry.
Responsibilities of the Lab Intern
As a Lab Intern at RCL Foods, the successful candidate will be responsible for a range of laboratory-related tasks and will work closely with the Shift Team Leader to support the business’s quality assurance processes. The primary duties and responsibilities include:
1. Analysis of Raw Materials and Products
The core responsibility of the intern will be to perform accurate and reliable analysis of incoming raw materials, intermediate products, and final products. These analyses will be carried out according to established test methods, ensuring that all results are precise and meet the required standards. Additionally, the intern will be required to test the shelf life of products, ensuring that they are suitable for distribution.
2. Data Recording and Communication
The intern will be responsible for recording all results in the company’s database. Once the analysis is complete, they will communicate their findings to the relevant Head of Department (HOD) or department teams. In the event that any issues or discrepancies arise, the intern will follow up on products that are placed on hold and report to management as necessary.
3. Internal Calibration and Sample Collection
The intern will assist with internal calibrations of laboratory equipment according to scheduled timelines, ensuring that all equipment is in working order. The intern will also be tasked with collecting product samples for analysis as needed. This task is critical in maintaining the integrity of the company’s product quality checks and overall testing processes.
4. Safety and Compliance
Safety is a top priority at RCL Foods, and the Lab Intern will be expected to work in a manner that ensures both their safety and that of their colleagues. They must follow all standard operating procedures when handling equipment, ensuring that all activities are conducted according to company protocols. The intern will also need to report any equipment failures or issues to the Lab Controller, assisting in the smooth running of the laboratory’s operations.
5. Retention and External Testing
In addition to the routine analysis, the intern will assist with the preparation of samples for external testing. They will also ensure that sufficient retention samples are collected and stored in compliance with the company’s procedures. Retention samples are critical for quality control and can be used for future reference if any issues arise regarding the quality or safety of the product.
6. Administrative Support
The intern will be required to assist in administrative tasks, including ensuring that logbooks and project documentation are kept up to date. Furthermore, the intern will communicate progress on studies and projects to the Technical Executive, keeping management informed on the status of key activities.
Minimum Requirements
To apply for this position, the candidate must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Educational Qualification: Must be a third-year student or completing in-service training towards an N. Diploma in Food Technology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
- Skills:
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency in English, both written and verbal.
- Strong communication skills to relay findings clearly to colleagues and supervisors.
- Attention to detail and accuracy when performing analyses and recording results.
- Basic computer skills for data entry and report generation.
- Problem-solving abilities to address any challenges in the lab environment.
Additional Requirements
- The intern must be able to adapt to a fast-paced working environment.
- They should demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and adhere to laboratory safety protocols at all times.
- A proactive attitude towards learning and improving within the field of food quality control and analysis is highly valued.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should submit their application by July 2, 2025. Please ensure that your application includes an updated CV, relevant academic transcripts, and a cover letter detailing your interest in the internship.
RCL Foods provides a valuable platform for students to gain practical experience in a cutting-edge laboratory environment. As a Lab Intern, you will have the opportunity to develop technical and professional skills while contributing to the company’s mission of delivering high-quality food products. This internship is an excellent stepping stone for anyone looking to pursue a career in food technology or related fields.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of a leading company in the food industry! Apply today and take the next step in your career.
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