Machine Operator

Sucafina is a leading sustainable coffee company, connecting coffee producers with roasters worldwide. With a rich history and a global presence, we are committed to fostering sustainable practices, innovation, and strong relationships across the coffee supply chain. Our operations span sourcing, trading, and logistics, ensuring high-quality coffee reaches consumers efficiently and responsibly. 

The Machine Operator is responsible for the direct supervision of daily processing operations and factory labor management. This role ensures that processing targets are met safely and efficiently, acting as the primary link between the Plant Manager’s production plan and the Warehouse Manager’s stock movements. The Machine Operator will oversees the technical operation of machinery.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Production Execution & Factory Supervision

• Shift Leadership: Supervise the day-to-day operation of the coffee processing plant (Pre-cleaning, Grading, Bulking, and Color Sorting) to meet daily throughput targets. Ensure productions schedules are followed and deadlines achieved.
• PI Compliance: Execute Processing Instructions (PIs), ensuring that the correct coffee lots are fed into the machines and processed to required standards.
• Machine Calibration: Conduct regular checks on machinery settings (e.g., Bühler Sortex sensitivities or Gravity Table tilt/vibration) to ensure optimal coffee separation/processing. Additionally, ensure machines and equipment are utilized efficiently.
• Quality Control: Ensure products meet required quality standards/specification by working closely with quality team to reduce rework and wastage.

2. Labor & Productivity Management

• Casual Labor Oversight: Directly manage machine operators, factory casuals’ staff, and floor clerks in coordination with the Warehouse Manager to ensure labor is allocated where it is most needed.
• Discipline & Training: Enforce the "Rules of Engagement" and company values on the floor; provide "on-the-job" training for staff on correct coffee handling and machinery operation.
• Output Tracking: Monitor and record hourly/daily production outputs and labor productivity, reporting any bottlenecks or slowdowns to the Plant Manager immediately.

3. Warehouse & Logistics Coordination

• Stock Movement Link: Work closely with the Warehouse Manager to ensure coffee is moved from the warehouse to the plant (and back) without delays or mixing of grades.
• Consumables Monitoring: Track the real-time usage of factory consumables (LPG, stitching thread, needles) and proactively notify the Warehouse Manager when replenishment is required. Additionally, monitor usage and minimize waste.
• Housekeeping: Ensure "Export-Ready" cleanliness standards are always maintained across the production floor and around the machinery.

4. Technical Maintenance & Safety

• First-Line Maintenance: Perform troubleshooting and adjustments to production machinery and utilities (compressors, generators, electricity, weighing scales, etc.); immediately escalate complex electrical or mechanical faults to the Plant Manager.
• Safety Enforcement (SHE): Ensure all floor staff wear the correct PPE and follow safety protocols. Act as the primary safety marshal during production shifts.
• Incident Reporting: Document and report any near-misses, accidents, or equipment damage that occurs during the shift.

5. Reporting & Data Integrity

• Shift Reports: Prepare detailed end-of-shift reports capturing utilities consumption and any technical issues encountered.
• System Accuracy: Ensure all physical stocks issued to production fully aligns with qty/weights specified in processing instructions and promptly report/investigate any significant deviations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or Food Science.
• Experience: 3+ years in a supervisory role within a coffee mill or high-volume food processing plant. Hands-on skills in maintenance of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with coffee grading, optical sorters, and industrial safety standards. Prior exposure to Buhler machines will be an added advantage.