Development and Innovation Officer

About the role

Royal Mabati Factory Limited is hiring a Development and Innovation Officer in Westlands, Nairobi. The role focuses on identifying automation opportunities in manufacturing, building software tools and scripts for process improvement, and leading projects on emerging technologies such as AI, IoT and robotics.

Key responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for automation in manufacturing processes such as production lines, supply chain and quality assurance.
• Design, develop and implement software tools and scripts for process automation and improvement.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to analyse current processes and recommend solutions that reduce costs and increase productivity.
• Lead projects on emerging technologies such as AI, IoT or robotics integration in manufacturing environments.
• Test and deploy custom applications or integrations to optimise operational workflows.
• Monitor the impact of implemented innovations and refine them based on performance data.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement through workshops and promotion of best practices.
• Stay up to date on industry trends in automation and apply them to manufacturing challenges.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 4-6 years of experience in IT development and innovation, ideally in manufacturing or industrial automation.
• Certifications in project management (PMP) or innovation (e.g. Certified Innovation Professional).

Required skills

• Programming languages such as Python and Java, and automation tools such as RPA software.
• Process improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma or Agile.
• Manufacturing automation systems, including PLC programming or SCADA.
• Leadership and communication skills to drive cross-functional innovation initiatives.