Tupande Pyrolysis Operator

at One Acre Fund
Published July 20, 2026
Location Rukanga, Kenya
Category General  
Job Type Full Time  

Description

About the Role
Operates and monitors a designated stage of the pyrolysis production process; feedstock feeding and drying, core carbonization, or biochar discharge and cooling.

Responsibilities
Feeder and Dryer Stage

Load feedstock into the feed system at the correct rate
Monitor and control the drying system to maintain target moisture levels
Ensure a consistent and uninterrupted feed to the carbonizer
Carbonizer Stage

Monitor and control pyrolysis temperatures, airflow, and combustion conditions
Adjust system parameters to maintain optimal and stable operation
Respond immediately to process deviations
Discharge and Cooling Stage

Monitor and control the cooling system
Maintain consistent biochar product flow from the discharge point to storage or packaging
Detect and clear blockages safely and promptly
All Stages

Record process data, readings, and observations in the shift log at defined intervals
All stages: Report equipment faults, unusual readings, or safety concerns to the Production Supervisor immediately
Perform equipment pre-checks at shift start and assist with start-up, shutdown, and cleaning procedures
Follow all Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) hazard awareness protocols at the assigned workstation throughout the shift
Other

Support the Maintenance Officer during equipment stoppages or cleaning related to the assigned process stage

Qualifications
Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:

Certificate or diploma in a technical, mechanical, chemical, or process engineering field preferred
Prior experience in pyrolysis, kiln operation, biomass processing, or high-temperature industrial processing is a strong advantage (particularly for the carbonizer stage)
Ability to read gauges, meters, and basic instrumentation and record data accurately
Reliable, attentive, and able to follow SOPs precisely under minimal supervision
Other

Shift availability: Willingness and ability to work rotating 9-hour shifts, including night shifts, on a rotation cycle
Physically capable of working in a hot, dusty industrial environment throughout the shift, including conducting walkthroughs of the production line at regular intervals

Please send your resume/CV