Technical Operations Manager

2025-10-14T11:19:45+00:00

FULL_TIME

Human Services

Business Operations

2025-10-28T17:00:00+00:00

 

Kenya

8

A hay processing company based in Kajiado, Kenya, seeks an accomplished and self-driven Technical Operations Manager to ensure the optimal operation of its hay processing factory. The successful candidate will oversee production efficiency, equipment reliability, and compliance with export standards for international markets — particularly Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region.

 

Role Objective:

To manage the end-to-end technical and operational functions of a hay processing and export facility, ensuring consistent quality, high throughput, equipment reliability, and adherence to phytosanitary, moisture, and nutritional standards required for export-grade animal feed.

1. Production & Processing Management * Plan, coordinate, and supervise hay intake, sorting, drying, chopping, compacting, and baling operations. * Ensure optimal moisture content, texture, and nutrient retention as per export specifications. * Develop and implement daily/weekly production schedules aligned with export orders. * Monitor yield, quality, and throughput efficiency across processing lines. * Oversee loading and containerization of hay bales for export. 2. Technical & Process Optimization * Ensure proper functioning of processing machinery (mowers, rakes, tedders, balers, conveyors, compaction units). * Implement preventive maintenance and reliability programs for all mechanical and electrical equipment. * Optimize drying and storage conditions to prevent mold, contamination, and nutrient loss. * Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce waste. 3. Quality Assurance & Compliance * Enforce strict quality control at all stages — from field intake to final bale. * Ensure compliance with export requirements: moisture %, bale density, weight, and cleanliness. * Liaise with KEBS, KEPHIS, and other regulatory agencies for inspection and certification. * Maintain documentation for traceability, batch records, and phytosanitary certificates. * Conduct regular audits to maintain consistency with Saudi import standards and client requirements. 4. Logistics & Export Coordination * Oversee logistics for transport of hay from farms to the processing site and to port. * Coordinate with freight forwarders, clearing agents, and shipping lines for export schedules. * Monitor container loading, fumigation, and inspection activities per export standards. * Optimize storage, inventory, and dispatch to minimize demurrage and wastage. 5. Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) * Ensure safe operations of all plant equipment and vehicles. * Implement dust control, fire prevention, and occupational safety programs. * Promote a safety-first culture among all staff and operators. * Ensure compliance with NEMA and county environmental regulations. 6. Team Leadership & Performance Management * Lead and develop teams of operators, maintenance staff, and quality controllers. * Set operational targets and evaluate performance based on KPIs. * Conduct technical training on equipment handling, bale quality, and safety. * Promote teamwork and accountability across departments. 7. Data, Reporting & Budget Control * Track key operational metrics (daily tonnage processed, downtime, moisture variance, rejection rate). * Prepare regular reports for management and export clients. * Manage operational budgets and control costs related to fuel, maintenance, and logistics.

* Leadership and people management. * Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. * Excellent planning and coordination skills. * Attention to detail and commitment to quality. * Effective communication and stakeholder management. * Integrity, reliability, and adaptability to field and factory conditions. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) * Tonnes of hay processed per day/week. * Percentage of export-grade bales produced. * Quality parameters consistency within specified limits. * Downtime vs uptime ratio. * Cost per tonne processed. * Safety and compliance records. * On-time delivery and shipment accuracy.

* Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field. * Diploma in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or Plant Operations is an added advantage. Experience: * Minimum 5 years in agro-processing, feed manufacturing, or post-harvest operations. * Strong knowledge of hay or forage handling, drying, and baling technology. * Experience with export-oriented production or quality systems (ISO 22000 / HACCP). * Familiarity with KEPHIS, KEBS, NEMA, and customs procedures.

JOB-68ee31d13277d