Machine Operator

Job description

Eleven Degrees consulting, on behalf of
Avodemia
, is seeking to fill the following position of
Machine Operator
on a Fixed Term Contract.

Eleven Degrees Consulting Limited
is a leading shared service company for Mini Group of Companies, dedicated to providing innovative solutions to our clients.

We are committed to excellence and strive to deliver the highest quality products and services.

Our team is a diverse group of talented professionals who are passionate about their work and dedicated to the company's success.

Job Title:
Machine Operator

Location:
Ruiru

Reports To:
Production & Maintenence Manager

Employment Type:
Fixed Term Contract

A.

Position Summary

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating machinery used in the extraction of avocado oil from avocado pulp in a safe, efficient, and effective manner.

The role includes managing the avocado oil extraction process, conducting maintenance on equipment, ensure that equipment operates efficiently, meets production targets and ensuring product quality meets established standards.

B.

Key Duties/ Responsibilities.

Setup and Calibration:

• Set up and adjust machine settings, controls, and parameters according to product specifications and production requirements.
  
  
• Ensure that the necessary components such as filters, press plates, and collection containers are properly and securely installed and all safety locks and shields are in place.
  
  
• Perform routine calibration and maintenance checks to ensure optimal machine performance (e.g., cold press, centrifuge, decanter) before starting production to ensure all components are in working condition.
  
  
• Check for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction that may need repair before operation.
  
  
• Check that power connections and control systems are fully functional.
  
  

Machine Operation

• Follow standard operating procedures (SOP) to start the machine, ensuring all settings are in the default or required mode for operation.
  
  
• Operate machinery and equipment used in the extraction and processing of avocado oil, (Such as oil presses, decanters, separators, filters, and centrifuges to produce high-quality avocado oil.
  
  
• Adjust machine settings (pressure, temperature, speed) to optimize oil yield and quality.
  
  
• Monitor the entire extraction process from avocado pulp preparation to final oil collection.
  
  
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols to ensure proper operation of equipment.
  
  
• Verify that avocado pulp is properly prepared and free from contaminants before feeding it into the machine.
  
  
• Adjust feeding mechanisms (e.g., conveyor belts, hoppers) to ensure smooth input of avocado pulp into the extraction system

Troubleshooting and machine maintenance:

• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and mechanical issues as they arise and make minor adjustments as needed and directed by the supervisor.
  
  
• Take corrective action to resolve problems promptly and minimize downtime.
  
  
• Report any equipment failures or maintenance needs to supervisors for repair.
  
  
• Ensure the machinery is running smoothly, troubleshoot issues,
• Report any mechanical malfunctions to the maintenance department for prompt repair.
  
  

Production Efficiency:

• Monitor production output and equipment efficiency to maximize productivity and meet production targets.
  
  
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement measures to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
  
  

Quality Control:

• Monitor product quality throughout the oil extraction and processing process, including visual inspections, oil purity tests, color, viscosity, moisture content and sensory evaluations.
  
  
• Identify and address any deviations from quality standards or product specifications
• Assist identify defects in raw avocado pulp, notify the line manager and take corrective action to prevent oil contamination.
  
  
• Adhere to company standards for oil quality, yield, and production targets.
  
  

Safety Compliance:

• Follow proper safety procedures for equipment startup, shutdown, and maintenance to prevent accidents and injuries
• Conduct daily inspections of equipment to ensure operational safety and cleanliness.
  
  
• Ensure all operations comply with health, safety, and environmental standards, including the safe handling of machinery and products.
  
  
• Adhere to all safety regulations and guidelines governing machine operation and oil processing activities.
  
  

Cleaning and Sanitation:

• Clean and sanitize machinery, equipment, and work areas according to sanitation protocols and hygiene standards.
  
  Ensure that equipment is properly sanitized between production runs to prevent cross-contamination.
  
  
• Perform routine maintenance of oil extraction machines, such as cleaning filters, adjusting belts, and lubricating moving parts.
  
  
• After production, ensure the machine is properly cleaned and free from residue before recalibrating for the next batch.
  
  
• Disassemble and reassemble machine components (such as screens and filters) as needed, ensuring they are ready for accurate recalibration for the next production cycle.
  
  

Documentation:

• Maintain accurate production records, equipment logs, and quality control documentation.
  
  
• Record production data, oil yields, machine settings, and any deviations from standard procedures for reporting and analysis.
  
  
• Track and document machine performance, maintenance activities, and any production downtime.
  
  
• Maintain a log of calibration settings, adjustments made, and the corresponding results.
  
  
• Report daily production metrics and any discrepancies or equipment issues to the line manager.
  
  

Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with other production team members, supervisors, and quality control staff to coordinate production activities and ensure smooth workflow.
  
  
• Communicate effectively with colleagues to address production-related issues and achieve production goals.
  
  

C.

Key Outputs/Deliverables/KPIs (Included but not limited)

• Machine Readiness: All machines are set up and ready for operation at the start of each shift.
  
  
• Calibration Accuracy: Machines are calibrated within defined tolerances for optimal oil extraction.
  
  
• Downtime Reduction:
• Minimize delays due to improper setup or calibration errors.
  
  
• Minimal unscheduled machine downtime due to rapid troubleshooting.
  
  
• Production Output: Meet or exceed daily/weekly production targets (e.g., volume of avocado oil extracted).
  
  
• Consistency: Maintain consistent flow and operation of the machines, avoiding jams or slowdowns.
  
  
• Efficiency: Machines are operated at optimal performance, minimizing energy and raw material waste.
  
  
• Preventative Maintenance Compliance: Adhere to scheduled maintenance tasks to prevent mechanical failures.
  
  
• Repair Speed: Efficient and quick resolution of breakdowns or malfunctions.
  
  
• Yield Optimization: Maximize the amount of oil extracted from each batch of avocados.
  
  
• Cycle Time: Maintain or reduce the average time per production cycle.
  
  
• Resource Utilization: Efficient use of raw materials, energy, and machine capacity.
  
  
• Quality Assurance: Consistently meet or exceed quality targets for oil purity, moisture content, and acidity levels.
  
  
• Rejection Rate: Maintain a low product rejection rate due to quality defects.
  
  
• Sampling Accuracy: Ensure that conduct quality tests and inspections are at the specified frequency.
  
  
• Incident Rate: Zero incidents of workplace accidents or safety violations.
  
  
• Safety Audit Compliance: Pass all internal and external safety audits.
  
  
• PPE Usage: Full compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
  
  
• Sanitation Compliance: Adhere to sanitation and hygiene standards (HACCP or GMP) during and after production.
  
  
• Cleanliness Audits: Score highly on internal and external cleanliness checks.
  
  
• Contamination Incidents: Zero contamination incidents due to improper cleaning.
  
  
• Teamwork: Active participation in team meetings and process improvement initiatives.
  
  
• Communication: Clear and timely communication with other team members and supervisors.
  
  
• Training Contribution: Assist in training or mentoring new operators to meet operational standards.
  
  

D.

Academic and professional Qualifications and experience required

• Minimum of a Diploma in Electrical, Mechanical Engineering or related technical courses.
  
  
• Occupational Trade Tests III/ II/I for machine Operators from a recognized institution;
• First-Aid Certificate Course lasting not less than one (1) week from a recognized institution;
• At least 3 years of hands previous experience operating machinery in a food processing or manufacturing environment is preferred.
  
  
• Experience with oil extraction equipment or similar processing machinery is a plus
• Knowledge of safety regulations and practices related to machine operation and food processing.
  
  

E.

Key Skills and Competences

• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand and operate complex machinery and equipment.
  
  
• Familiarity with automated production systems, control panels, and machine interfaces
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in performing tasks such as machine setup, calibration, and quality control checks.
  
  
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to standard operating procedures.
  
  
• Proficiency in computer application skills;
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and mechanical issues effectively.
  
  
• Resourcefulness and creativity in finding solutions to production challenges.
  
  
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects, and perform repetitive tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
  
  
• Good physical condition and stamina are necessary for performing the duties of a machine operator.
  
  
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  
  
• Willingness to collaborate with colleagues and support team goals and objectives.
  
  

NB:

• Please indicate your current salary and salary expectations in your application.
  
  
• We do not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
  
  
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
  
  
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
  
  

Required Skill Profession

Other General