Laboratory Technician (Vegetable Oil Extraction Plant) – Bonje, Kwale

About the role

WTS Energy is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support its vegetable oil extraction plant in Bonje, Kwale. The role involves conducting sampling and analytical testing of oilseeds, crude and refined oils, meals, by‑products and environmental samples to ensure product quality and compliance.

Key responsibilities

• Collect and prepare samples of incoming raw materials, intermediate products and finished oils for laboratory analysis.
• Perform wet‑chemistry and instrumental analyses using validated methods and recognised standards.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
• Verify product compliance with quality specifications and report any non‑conformities.
• Maintain laboratory records, quality management systems and data integrity in line with GLP, GMP, ISO, HACCP and ALCOA+ principles.
• Support method validation, internal quality control programmes, proficiency testing and laboratory audits.
• Manage chemicals, reagents, consumables and reference materials safely.
• Assist with regulatory inspections, customer audits and implementation of corrective actions.
• Promote safe laboratory practices and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in an analytical or industrial laboratory, preferably in food processing, edible oils or chemical manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of laboratory quality management systems (GLP, GMP, ISO, HACCP).
• Familiarity with laboratory documentation and data integrity principles.

Required skills

• Wet chemistry techniques
• Analytical instrumentation operation and troubleshooting
• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
• Method validation and quality control practices