Development & Innovation Officer

Role Overview

This role places you at the center of a manufacturing company’s push toward smarter, more efficient operations. You will work across both office and factory environments, spotting manual bottlenecks and replacing them with custom software, automated workflows, and connected industrial technologies. Your daily work involves coding, testing, piloting new tools, and collaborating with production teams to ensure every digital solution delivers measurable gains in plant productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deploy custom applications, scripts, and API integrations that connect business databases with manufacturing systems.
• Identify repetitive tasks in production, quality control, supply chain, and finance, then build RPA workflows and Python scripts to automate them.
• Create scalable and secure software solutions with full documentation, following enterprise security requirements.
• Work alongside engineering teams to link IT systems with PLCs, SCADA platforms, and other shop-floor controllers.
• Research and test emerging technologies such as AI, IoT sensors, predictive analytics, and digital twin concepts.
• Build proof-of-concept models, run pilot trials, and document implementation plans, best practices, and user guides.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, or Agile methodologies to measure operational performance before and after technology rollouts.
• Lead cross-functional innovation projects from concept to completion, including planning, budget tracking, and hands-on training sessions to encourage adoption.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field; an advanced degree is preferred.
• 4–6 years of experience in software development, IT innovation, or digital transformation, ideally within manufacturing or industrial operations.
• Strong programming skills in Python, Java, or C#, along with practical experience using RPA automation tools.
• Hands-on familiarity with industrial control systems, including PLC interfaces, SCADA platforms, or industrial IoT devices.
• Project management credentials such as PMP, or process certifications like Lean Six Sigma or Agile, are highly advantageous.
• Proven ability to lead process-improvement initiatives and communicate technical ideas clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Solid stakeholder coordination skills, with a track record of managing multiple tasks and priorities across departments.

What We Offer / Why Join

The role comes with a competitive monthly salary of KSh 40,000–70,000, depending on experience, and offers full-time, on-site employment in Mlolongo, Machakos County. You will gain hands-on exposure to cutting-edge industrial technologies, including RPA, IoT, and predictive analytics, while working directly with production, engineering, and business teams. This is a chance to shape digital transformation in a progressive manufacturing environment and build a portfolio of real-world automation projects that improve plant performance.