Role overview
What you'll be stepping into
Process Operator Job at Nile Breweries Limited
Nile Breweries Limited is seeking a skilled and motivated Process Operator to join its brewing operations team at the Mbarara Brew site in Uganda. The successful candidate will be responsible for safely operating and maintaining defined brewing process areas and equipment while supporting quality, efficiency, safety, and continuous improvement.
About Nile Breweries Limited
Nile Breweries Limited is part of a dynamic brewing environment built around innovation, teamwork, passion, talent, and curiosity. The company encourages employees to develop their potential while contributing to a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
The organisation looks for people who are ready to dream bigger, embrace new opportunities, and work collaboratively to deliver strong results.
About the Process Operator Role
The key purpose of the Process Operator position is to safely operate and maintain assigned brewing process areas, equipment, and related processes to achieve optimal effectiveness.
The role involves process monitoring, quality control, cleaning and maintenance, data recording, troubleshooting, safety management, and coordination with other technical and production teams.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
1. Safety
The Process Operator will:
Attend safety briefings covering incidents, near misses, and workplace risks.
Review MES/digital brew sheets and previous-shift data.
Receive shift handovers covering process updates and equipment status.
Deep-clean, inspect, and lubricate equipment.
Apply 5S principles to improve workplace organisation and efficiency.
Identify and report equipment defects and unsafe conditions.
Carry out assigned ATO tasks.
2. Quality and Brewing Process Monitoring
Monitor and maintain brewing-area process parameters across the Brewhouse, Cellars, and Filtration areas.
Monitor fermentation vessel parameters, including temperature, deviations, and yeast activity.
Perform Apparent Extract (AE) and Original Extract (OE) analysis.
Conduct beer, tank, colour, and volume analyses according to established schedules.
Apply frontline problem-solving techniques to address process issues.
3. Cleaning and Maintenance
Perform Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) activities for tanks, vessels, and pipelines.
Remove trub and conduct decanter bypass analysis.
Run CIP activities during double-brewhouse downtime.
Start and monitor steam systems.
Carry out basic autonomous maintenance activities, including valve changes and equipment inspections.
Conduct routine equipment walkabouts to identify potential issues at an early stage.
4. Performance Monitoring and Raw Material Coordination
Monitor equipment performance and report process deviations.
Ensure accurate and effective shift handovers.
Coordinate raw materials and process orders.
Monitor production processes to support efficient plant performance.
5. Breakdown and Escalation Management
Respond promptly to equipment alarms and process deviations.
Investigate and address issues within the scope of the role.
Escalate unresolved filtration and brewhouse problems to the appropriate technical or operational teams.
6. Data Entry and KPI Tracking
Capture laboratory, filtration, and tank data in the Manufacturing Execution System (MES).
Track and verify beer losses, plant availability, and process deviations.
Maintain accurate process information to support operational decision-making.
7. Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting
Apply structured problem-solving tools such as PFR, 5 WHY, and PTCA to identify root causes.
Work with artisans, specialists, and suppliers to resolve technical and process-related challenges.
Support continuous improvement initiatives within the brewing areas.
8. Team Coaching and Leadership Support
Participate in daily coaching sessions with Brewing Area Managers.
Support colleagues with troubleshooting and process improvement activities.
Contribute to a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
9. Weekend and Off-Shift Safety Leadership
Participate in safety pillar reviews.
Support or lead safety and workplace improvement initiatives, including 5S and hazard elimination activities.
Key Attributes and Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate:
Hard work and commitment.
Honesty and self-motivation.
Ability to work effectively in shifts.
A dynamic and collaborative approach to teamwork.
High integrity and attention to detail.
Curiosity, confidence, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
A mindset focused on continuous improvement and achieving high standards.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
To be considered for the Process Operator position, applicants should have:
A National Diploma or higher in Food Science, Industrial Chemistry, Engineering, or a related field.
At least 2 years of relevant work experience, preferably within the food and beverage industry or a production environment.
Practical ability to work in a process-driven manufacturing environment.
Willingness and ability to work shifts.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is suitable for candidates with a background in Food Science, Industrial Chemistry, Engineering, or related technical disciplines, particularly those with experience working in food and beverage manufacturing, production, or other process-oriented environments.
Candidates who are safety-conscious, detail-oriented, comfortable working shifts, and interested in brewing and manufacturing operations are encouraged to apply.
How to apply