Batch Processing Operator

Role Overview

This position runs batch manufacturing processes from raw material charging through to final batch completion, keeping equipment, materials, and documentation aligned with approved formulas and quality standards. The operator is a key point of control for yield, safety, and consistency, responding quickly when process conditions drift or equipment issues appear. Success in the role means reliable production, clean and safe work areas, accurate records, and clear communication across shifts.

Key Responsibilities

• Measure, load, and handle raw materials, additives, and other ingredients exactly as specified in approved batch formulas, using safe lifting and material-handling practices.
• Start up, operate, monitor, and shut down batch processing equipment such as vessels, mixers, reactors, filters, and pumps according to standard operating procedures and safety limits.
• Track critical process variables—including temperature, pressure, mixing time, flow, pH, and viscosity—and make adjustments within authorized ranges to meet production and quality targets.
• Observe batch progress and equipment behaviour, identify abnormalities, leaks, unusual sounds, or quality deviations, and report them promptly to the shift supervisor.
• Carry out changeovers, routine cleaning, basic equipment checks, and assigned preventive maintenance tasks, assisting with minor breakdowns to reduce downtime.
• Maintain strong SHE, hygiene, and 5S standards by keeping work areas organised, using required protective equipment, and following site safety and housekeeping rules.
• Complete batch records, log sheets, production reports, and raw material requests accurately and on time, and provide effective shift handovers covering production, quality, and equipment status.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by suggesting and supporting actions that reduce waste, improve yield, shorten cycle times, and lower process losses.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Technical certificate or diploma in processing, industrial chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related field is preferred.
• At least 2 years of hands-on experience in oil processing, chemical processing, cosmetic manufacturing, soap production, or a comparable FMCG batch-manufacturing environment.
• Practical experience operating process vessels, filters, pumps, mixers, and related equipment, including start-up, normal operation, cleaning, and basic checks.
• Ability to read and interpret batch cards, manufacturing procedures, standard operating instructions, and equipment manuals.
• Working knowledge of process parameter monitoring and basic chemical or process principles.
• Experience following preventive maintenance plans, attending to minor breakdowns, and recording maintenance work in log sheets or computerised maintenance records.
• Computer literacy sufficient to enter maintenance records, complete production reports, and raise raw material requests.
• Strong attention to detail, safe work habits, housekeeping discipline, and clear communication during shift handovers.