Machine Operator

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Out of a small trial project growing tomatoes, the concept of AAA Growers was born. Initially, setup in conjunction with the lending arm of the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), as a micro finance orientated project, today, AAA Growers is one of the leading exporters of premium & prepared vegetables from Kenya.

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Operator to operate, monitor, and maintain production machinery and ripening chambers to ensure efficient operations, product quality, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for machine performance, preventive maintenance coordination, ripening program execution, and accurate reporting.RequirementsDiploma/Certificate in Mechanical Engineering, Production Technology, Food Processing, or related field (preferred).Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a manufacturing or food processing environment.Knowledge of machine operation, calibration, and preventive maintenance systems.Experience with ripening processes is an added advantage.Understanding of safety and quality standards in a production setting.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Operate, monitor, and oversee production machinery and ripening chambers to ensure optimal productivity and efficiency.Troubleshoot equipment faults and report defective machines to the Production Supervisor/Manager.Perform machine calibration to meet required productivity levels, quality standards, and operating specifications.Conduct routine inspections and general machine housekeeping to maintain a clean and safe working environment.Ensure full compliance with plant safety, health, environmental rules, and proper use and maintenance of PPE.Stop or control further processing of products where non-conformities are identified until corrective actions are implemented.Manage and implement weekly ripening programs in accordance with approved schedules and SOPs.Immediately communicate any deviations in machine performance or ripening processes to the supervisor using the agreed reporting format.Ensure raw materials used for ripening meet required quality attributes (e.g., correct dry matter content, correct size profile) in liaison with the QA team.Monitor stock levels of ripening consumables (e.g., ethylene) and maintain re-order levels.Prepare and submit accurate daily production reports and support weekly/monthly production and maintenance reporting.Coordinate with the Maintenance Manager to ensure timely repair and servicing of production equipment and ripening chambers.Maintain and update Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) records for machines and ripening units.Ensure full hygiene hand-back procedures are completed after any maintenance activity.Perform any other duties as assigned by the direct supervisor or manager.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Quality management, Equipment and tool maintenance, Quality control and supervision, Work place safety, Mechanical drawings, Machine operation

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Diploma, Associate's degree