Solvent Extraction Supervisor

About the role

The Solvent Extraction Supervisor will lead daily solvent extraction operations, ensuring safe, efficient production of oil and meal at our plant in Nakuru. This senior‑level position oversees process control, team coordination and compliance with safety and quality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Supervise all stages of solvent extraction, from preparation and flaking to extraction, de‑solventizing, solvent recovery and oil/meal handling.
• Monitor critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, flow, level, throughput) and maintain stable plant performance to meet production, oil recovery and quality targets.
• Lead shift operators, manage manpower allocation, ensure effective handovers and enforce SOPs, safety instructions and operating limits.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety requirements for hexane and other flammable solvents, including PPE, Permit‑to‑Work, LOTO and emergency procedures.
• Coordinate with maintenance for equipment condition monitoring, corrective actions, shutdowns and preventive maintenance.
• Maintain accurate production, safety, quality and breakdown records and prepare shift reports for management.

Required profile

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Food Science/Technology, Oilseed Technology, Process Technology or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years (60 months) of experience in solvent extraction or similar process‑industrial environment.
• Senior‑level experience supervising plant operations and shift teams.

Required skills

• Process control of solvent extraction operations
• Hexane handling and solvent recovery
• Equipment troubleshooting and maintenance coordination
• LOTO and Permit‑to‑Work procedures
• Production reporting and data recording
• Quality assurance coordination for oil and meal specifications