Cosmetics jobs in Johannesburg, Gauteng

Industry: Cosmetics and Personal Care Manufacturing (Non-negotiable)

This is a Senior Operational role and will report directly to Exco

1. Job Purpose

The Factory Superintendent is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of the cosmetics manufacturing facility, ensuring efficient production processes, consistent product quality, compliance with regulatory and safety requirements, and the effective utilisation of staff, equipment and resources.

The role requires strong leadership, operational management and technical expertise to ensure that production targets are achieved while maintaining high standards of quality, hygiene, safety and operational efficiency.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Production Management

Oversee daily factory operations, including manufacturing, batching, filling, packaging and labelling.

Develop and implement production plans in line with customer demand and business objectives.

Ensure production schedules and targets are consistently achieved.

Monitor production output, efficiency, downtime and wastage.

Ensure optimal utilisation of raw materials, machinery, equipment and labour.

Identify production bottlenecks and implement corrective measures.

Ensure products are manufactured according to approved formulations and specifications.

B. Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure that all manufacturing processes comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to maintain product quality and consistency.

Ensure compliance with applicable cosmetics manufacturing regulations and industry standards.

Ensure accurate production records, batch manufacturing records and traceability documentation.

Monitor hygiene, sanitation and housekeeping standards throughout the factory.

Investigate production deviations, customer complaints and product quality issues.

C. Staff Management and Leadership

Supervise and manage production supervisors, team leaders, machine operators and general factory personnel.

Allocate responsibilities and ensure adequate staffing across production shifts.

Monitor employee performance, attendance, productivity and conduct.

Identify training needs and ensure employees are adequately trained.

Promote teamwork, accountability, discipline and a performance-driven culture.

Conduct regular performance reviews and address operational or personnel challenges.

D. Equipment and Maintenance

Ensure all manufacturing and packaging equipment is properly maintained.

Coordinate preventative and corrective maintenance schedules.

Minimise machinery breakdowns and production downtime.

Ensure equipment is calibrated, cleaned and maintained according to established procedures.

Identify opportunities for equipment upgrades and process improvements.

E. Inventory and Materials Management

Oversee the availability and utilisation of raw materials, packaging materials and production consumables.

Work closely with Procurement and Stores to ensure materials are available according to production requirements.

Minimise material wastage, losses and stock discrepancies.

Ensure proper storage and handling of raw materials and finished products.

Monitor stock levels and report potential shortages that may affect production.

F. Health, Safety and Environmental Management

Ensure compliance with occupational health and safety requirements.

Maintain a safe, clean and organised manufacturing environment.

Ensure employees follow safety procedures when handling chemicals, machinery and manufacturing equipment.

Identify workplace hazards and implement appropriate risk control measures.

Ensure proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals and manufacturing waste.

G. Operational Excellence and Cost Management

Monitor manufacturing costs and identify opportunities for cost reduction.

Improve production efficiencies and reduce waste.

Implement continuous improvement initiatives.

Develop and monitor key production performance indicators (KPIs).

Prepare regular production reports for management.

Drive operational excellence and ensure the factory operates within approved budgets.

3. Minimum Qualifications and Experience

Diploma or Degree in Production Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Technology or a related field.

Minimum 5–8 years' experience in a manufacturing environment.

At least 3–5 years in a supervisory or management position.

Experience in cosmetics, personal care, skincare, haircare or FMCG manufacturing will be highly advantageous.

Strong knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Knowledge of production planning, quality control and manufacturing processes.

Experience managing production teams and factory operations.

4. Required Skills and Competencies

Strong leadership and people management skills.

Excellent production planning and organisational abilities.

Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Good understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Strong analytical and reporting capabilities.

Ability to work under pressure and meet production deadlines.

High levels of accountability, integrity and attention to detail.

Strong cost-control and resource-management skills.

5. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

The Factory Superintendent will be measured against the following:

6. Key Working Relationships

The Factory Superintendent will work closely with:

General Manager / Head of Operations

Production and Quality Assurance Teams

Research and Development (R&D)

Procurement and Supply Chain

Warehouse and Inventory Management

Maintenance and Engineering

Human Resources

7. Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate must be a hands-on, a results-oriented leader who can manage a busy manufacturing environment, drive operational efficiencies, develop people and maintain high standards of product quality and factory discipline.

Important: The successful candidate must understand the unique requirements of cosmetics manufacturing, including batching, formulation handling, filling, packaging, hygiene controls, batch traceability and quality compliance.

Remmuneration - Market related

Work Location: In person