Mechanical Engineer at Mkwawa Water Limited

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer – Drinking Water Production (SIDEL Lines)

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineer to join our team and oversee the mechanical operations of our state-of-the-art pure drinking water production facility, which utilizes advanced SIDEL bottling and packaging lines. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the optimal performance of our production equipment, minimizing downtime, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and product quality.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
   • Perform routine and preventive maintenance on SIDEL bottling lines, including blow molding, filling, capping, labeling, and packaging equipment.
   • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic system malfunctions to minimize production interruptions.
   • Develop and implement robust corrective and preventive maintenance programs to ensure equipment reliability and longevity.
2. Process Optimization:
   • Monitor, analyze, and interpret machine performance data to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production and quality assurance, to optimize operational processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
   • Propose and execute equipment upgrades or modifications to improve functionality, efficiency, and output quality.
3. Technical Support:
   • Provide expert technical guidance and training to machine operators and production staff to ensure proper equipment operation and maintenance.
   • Oversee the setup, calibration, and adjustment of machinery to meet production specifications and quality standards.
4. Compliance & Safety:
   • Ensure all mechanical systems and processes comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
   • Promote and enforce workplace safety protocols, actively participating in health and safety initiatives to maintain a safe working environment.
5. Documentation & Reporting:
   • Maintain detailed and accurate records of maintenance activities, repair schedules, spare parts inventory, and equipment performance.
   • Prepare comprehensive reports on equipment performance, downtime analysis, maintenance trends, and improvement recommendations.
6. Project Management:
   • Participate in the installation, commissioning, and validation of new SIDEL machinery and auxiliary equipment.
   • Lead or support capital improvement projects aimed at increasing production capacity, enhancing energy efficiency, or implementing new technologies.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment, preferably within the beverage, food, or water industry.
  • Hands-on experience with SIDEL bottling lines is highly desirable.
• Skills:
  • In-depth knowledge of mechanical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, and automation.
  • Proficiency in using maintenance management systems (CMMS) and production monitoring tools.
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills with a keen attention to detail.
  • Ability to thrive under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced, high-volume production environment.
• Language: Fluency in English and Kiswahili, both written and verbal.

Working Conditions:

• The role is based in a factory setting with exposure to machinery noise, high-speed production lines, and varying temperatures.
• Rotational shifts, including weekends and holidays, may be required to support 24/7 production operations.

Key Competencies:

• Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
• Adaptability to new technologies and a willingness to stay updated on industry trends and advancements.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the efficiency and growth of a leading pure drinking water production facility while working with cutting-edge SIDEL technology. If you are a dedicated and innovative Mechanical Engineer with a passion for excellence, we encourage you to apply.