WTS Energy Careers

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Certification Coordinator to lead and manage sustainability certification and quality management systems for agricultural and agroforestry projects. The role requires expertise in certification processes, traceability, and sustainability practices, along with proficiency in GIS and remote sensing technologies. The successful candidate will work closely with local staff and relevant head office functions to ensure compliance with certification standards and optimize production systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee sustainability certification processes and quality management systems, such as Ecocert, GlobalGAP, and Fairtrade, ensuring compliance with relevant ISO standards. 
• Conduct analyses of existing supply chains and assess production potential for agricultural biomass, including its industrial applications.
• Designing and managing large-scale agricultural and agroforestry interventions and applying contract farming mechanisms or agro-industrial initiatives.
• Manage certification processes for production traceability, sustainability, and GHG emissions calculations.  Utilize GIS tools, such as ArcGIS or QGIS, for data visualization and mapping, with adequate training in remote sensing and related fields.
• Collaborate closely with local teams and head office functions to plan, schedule, and oversee work.

Key Qualifications:

• A degree in Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Engineering, Natural Sciences, or a related field.
• Must have at least 3 years of experience in a similar role or field.
• Strong knowledge of sustainability certification processes and quality management systems (e.g., Ecocert, GlobalGAP, Fairtrade).
• Experience with agricultural and agroforestry production systems, contract farming, and agro-industrial initiatives.
• Proficiency in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS) and adequate training in GIS and remote sensing.
• Familiarity with GHG emissions calculations and sustainability traceability.
• Strong ability to manage and design large-scale agricultural projects.
• Fluency in English (knowledge of Italian is an added advantage).
• Candidates must be fully available to work in Nairobi, Kenya, and pass an interview with our client’s competent personnel for confirmation.

Job Description: Process Engineer

Reports to: Site Manager

Our client a fast-growing biochar carbon removal company based in Kenya, whose mission is to sequester carbon and build climate-resilient communities through innovative biochar solutions that improve soil health and support smallholder farmers are looking for a Process Engineer to lead their team of 36 Operators and Engineers, building a team and process that will establish the organization as a global leader in the biochar carbon removal space. This role requires in-depth experience in production processes, high levels of attention to detail, and experience operating within manufacturing at international standards. This is not an office role—we’re looking for someone who wants to solve problems, take a hands-on approach to operations, and play an integral role in building Africa’s largest biochar company.

The role will involve learning about the biochar production process, then applying standard management and engineering processes to optimize current operations, make design improvements to the existing plant, and provide design input to new plant procurement, installation, commissioning, and eventual new plant operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensuring compliance with company values and statutory regulations
• Work with our Site Manager to establish industry-leading health and safety standards
• Fault finding and fixing mechanical, process, and electrical problems on-site, with the support of the team Engineers and Operators
• Utilize your experience to develop process designs for biochar production
• Support the Site Manager and wider team with design responsibility and interfacing between process, mechanical, electrical, control, and civil engineering competencies
• Play a key role in training our team of engineers, creating a culture of operational excellence
• Drive project activities related to techno-commercial procurement of the equipment and services required to execute process designs
• Build a structure for comprehensive reporting and communicate on-the-floor activities clearly with the Site Manager
• Participate in project-related meetings and provide technical feedback and recommendations
• Take a hands-on approach, providing on-the-ground expertise and support to the team
• Scheduling, resource allocation, and planning
• Process optimization and the implementation of global industry standards
• Support project execution, including project planning, scheduling, cost estimating, and risk management
• During design and construction phases, develop operational processes to enable safe plant commissioning and operation

Key Requirements:

• University degree or equivalent experience in an engineering subject (e.g. chemical, process, or mechanical)
• Must have 5 to 10 years of experience in a process engineering role
• Experience with energy system modeling or process engineering (process simulations, heat and mass balances, process/utility flow diagrams, equipment design and selection, cost estimation, process safety)
• This is an 80% on-site role. The successful candidate will operate on-site daily, working with the team to solve problems and build out processes. If you want an office job, this isn’t the role for you!
• Fluent in English
• Experience in Startups

Job Description

Job Title: MAINTENANCE ENGINEER: 

We are actively seeking a Maintenance Engineer with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar position within a manufacturing or production plant. The successful candidate will ensure the availability, reliability, and efficiency of plant equipment, utilities, and building facilities through effective maintenance functions for optimal operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform all maintenance functions in the manufacturing plant/equipment, utilities, and facilities, including installation, commissioning, operations, and maintenance in line with ISO standards.
• Establish and optimize plant operations and process improvement initiatives, focusing on mechanical, electrical, and electronics functions, and building facilities. Lead innovation management efforts to create value internally (operations efficiency/productivity) and externally (customer satisfaction).
• Measure and monitor the effectiveness and efficiency of operational processes, providing recommendations for improvement.
• Identify, develop, recommend, and execute key maintenance efficiency drivers. Oversee and optimize day-to-day maintenance operations, including long/short-term strategies, initiatives, programs, and maintenance plans. Develop annual operating budgets for maintenance functions, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Develop and implement maintenance procedures and processes to support Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Production Practices (GPP), and the company’s quality management system. Drive the adoption of a continuous improvement culture focused on Lean manufacturing principles.
• Apply a proactive, quality-by-design approach to all manufacturing processes, services, and premises.
• Ensure systematic prevention of issues through inspections, maintenance, and controls at all points in the value chain.
• Lead rapid corrective actions to identify and resolve root causes of problems, coordinating cross-functional teams for problem-solving.
• Train, develop, supervise, and coordinate an effective maintenance team, working cross-functionally with all departments to achieve strategic goals. Ensure comprehensive documentation of all maintenance activities.
• Ensure overall equipment efficiency in terms of availability, reliability, and performance.
• Develop cost-saving proposals, monitor usage of utilities, and implement improvement initiatives to reduce maintenance and production costs while meeting quality and regulatory requirements.
• Formulate and implement a preventive maintenance master plan for all plant equipment, utilities, and systems.
• Schedule, coordinate, and control all maintenance activities, ensuring effective planning and execution.
• Continuously improve maintenance procedures and effectiveness to reduce costs. Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) and documentation for maintenance activities.
• Manage the main power distribution system, including high-voltage and low-voltage installations and maintenance. Address observed electrical risks and hazards.
• Handle all occupational health and safety functions, including equipment inspections, and mitigate observed health and safety risks.
• Oversee electrical transmission, hydraulic, pneumatic, and heating systems as required.
• Implement energy management strategies to reduce electricity consumption, improve electrical safety, and enhance overall efficiency.
• Prepare maintenance budgets and monitor expenses to ensure budgetary control.
• Use maintenance management software to enhance maintenance functions and improve operational efficiency.
• Minimize equipment breakdowns and prolong the lifespan of equipment to improve overall equipment efficiency and reduce power consumption.
• Perform routine checks and monitoring of equipment to identify and address anomalies.
• Implement the latest production/maintenance technologies to stay current with industry advancements.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Plant Manager.

Key Qualifications 

• Experience with oil extraction machines or refinery processes, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, or Mechatronics from a recognized institution.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years of continuous experience in manufacturing, with a focus on engineering and maintenance functions aligned with ISO/QMS standards.
• Knowledge of Kaizen, Six Sigma, and Lean manufacturing practices.
• Familiarity with key process utilities such as air compressors, boilers, emergency power generators, power distribution systems, heating systems, and water supply and treatment systems.

Job Description

Maintenance Superintendent

We are seeking to recruit a Maintenance Superintendent with a minimum of 5 years of experience in manufacturing /production plant. Previous experience in a vegetable oil extraction plant is an added advantage. The Ideal candidate should be familiar with maintenance methodology and working method, maintenance optimization and industry safety procedure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the maintenance plan, ensuring it aligns with production goals and industry best practices.
• Define and implement field maintenance operating procedures to ensure efficient and effective maintenance activities.
• Establish and enforce maintenance policies to promote equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
• Propose technical modifications to improve equipment performance and reliability.
• Conduct failure and criticality analyses, providing recommendations to enhance production operations.
• Optimize the organizational structure of maintenance staff, including resource allocation and budget management.
• Coordinate and oversee maintenance activities across mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation disciplines.
• Ensure the reliability and performance of all plant equipment and machinery through proactive maintenance measures.
• Coordinate scope of work and execution of modifications or improvements to enhance plant operations.
• Manage the maintenance budget and identify opportunities for cost optimization.
• Act as the authority overseeing all maintenance team activities, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (BSc) or equivalent, or Higher National Diploma (HND) with significant experience.
• Must have A minimum of 5 years continous experience in a similar function.
• Strong technical background in mechanical, electrical, or instrumentation engineering.
• Proven experience in maintenance management, including planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Familiarity with maintenance software systems for scheduling and tracking maintenance activities.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of industry safety standards and regulations, with a commitment to promoting a safe working environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex technical issues and develop practical solutions.
• Adaptability and flexibility to work in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Professional certifications in maintenance management or engineering (e.g., CMRP, PMP) are a plus.

Context. 

Used Cooking Oil (UCO) is a byproduct generated after vegetable oils have been used for cooking, rendering the oils unfit for reuse. The three primary sources of UCO are;

• Industrial: Food processing facilities  
• Commercial(HoReCa):Hotels, Restaurants, and Caterers  
• Domestic: Households  

UCO collection typically involves a door-to-door approach, with the volume per pickup ranging from 50 liters to 1,000 liters. Our client is seeking a Field Coordinator to support UCO collection projects within designated areas in Kenya.

Job Purpose:

• The UCO Collection Coordinator is responsible for organizing and executing daily UCO collection activities, following the commercial plan developed with the Biofeedstock Commercial Manager. Additionally, the role involves identifying and onboarding new UCO producers to expand collection efforts. The Ideal candidate should have prior experience in business development.

Job  Responsibilities: 

• Collection Coordination: Manage UCO collection activities from Points of Origin (PoO) in alignment with the terms of commercial contracts and daily collection schedules.  
• New Business Development: Scout for and engage new UCO producers to establish collection contracts.  
• Daily Planning: Collaborate with the Biofeedstock Commercial Manager to align collection activities with overall commercial and marketing objectives.  
• Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of UCO collection activities and contracts.  
• Relationship Management: Foster positive relationships with external partners, including PoO and our client’s collection partners.

Job Qualifications & Requirements:

• Relevant Diploma/degree   
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in waste or residue collection, preferably UCO.
• Must have a  Driving license (car and truck), with access to own transportation.  
• Strong commercial negotiation skills and field-based operations experience.  
• Results-oriented with excellent teamwork and problem-solving skills.  
• Fluent in English and Swahili.
• Results-driven with a focus on achieving collection targets.  
• Positive, energetic, and adaptable to change.  
• Demonstrates teamwork and lateral thinking to solve problems on the ground.

Job Purpose: 

The Budget and cost accountant will collect, analyse and report on Budgets and Cost accounting data. This includes preparing Budgets, standard cost reports, cost comparisons, product costing analysis, tracking variances and making journal entries. The job holder will also collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate budgeting and forecasting processes. 

Job responsibilities: 

• Works together with all departments to ensure financial reports are accurately captured.
• Prepare timely and accurate financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual statements.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for cost savings.
• Develop and maintain cost control procedures to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather data and insights for reporting purposes.
• Assist in budgeting and forecasting activities to support strategic decision-making.
• Perform ad-hoc financial analysis and reporting as requested 

Job Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field. CPA or CMA certification preferred.
• Must have  a  minimum of 2+ years of experience in financial reporting and cost control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and SAP accounting software.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines

Job Purpose:

Assist the Crop Production Coordinator in managing green initiatives for the designated area.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist the coordinator in defining environmental and geo-pedological characteristics for developing vegetable oil production initiatives (bio feedstock).
• Support the analysis of local agricultural contexts and production systems in rural areas.
• Assist in identifying, implementing, and monitoring appropriate intervention models for vertical integration projects in bio feedstock chains in the assigned area.
• Coordinate activities of field officers in agreement with the Crop Production Coordinator.
• Support other company initiatives (environmental awareness, communication campaigns, local content, etc.) contributing to agricultural development.
• Support Agrihub activities for supply and logistics.
• Utilize stakeholder relation skills, especially with local communities.
• Perform any other duties assigned from time to time.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Engineering, Natural Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar role or field.
• Experience in agricultural and agroforestry development projects, analysis of supply chains, and production potential of agricultural biomass for industrial use.
• Must have a valid driving license
• Ability to design and manage large-scale agricultural and agroforestry interventions.
• Knowledge of agricultural and agro-forestry production systems, particularly contract farming mechanisms and/or agro-industrial initiatives.
• Excellent coordination and reporting skills.
• Strong interpersonal, teamwork, and management skills.
• Candidate should have a network of relevant contacts to assist in job performance.
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Job Purpose: 

We are seeking a Field Officer based in Bomet/Narok to assist our client’s Agriculture Development Manager with the management of green initiatives for our client in the “Agri-Hub Project.” This role involves working directly with farmers on a day-to-day basis to ensure compliance and coordination of bio-fuel agriculture development activities within the county. The ideal candidates Must have a strong agricultural technical background, field training experience, and the ability to interact effectively with government officials, private sector stakeholders, and other NGO partners. This position also demands direct experience with the bio-feedstock value chain.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In close working relationship with the agricultural team members, support the agricultural development manager in defining the environmental and geo-pedological characteristics for the development of vegetable oil production initiatives (bio feedstock).
• Support the analysis of local agricultural contexts in Bomet  and Narok county and agricultural production systems in rural areas of the county.
• Build the capacity of the local communities to boost and manage their bio feedstock agricultural resources sustainably.
• Identify, profile and support farmer cooperatives, farmer field schools and farmer groups in the county.
• Provide information for the client’s monthly and quarterly reports in the agreed format and according to organizational deadlines.
• Participate actively in weekly, monthly and quarterly staff meetings.
• Participate in routine and annual stakeholder consultations and workshops in furtherance of the client’s work.
• Develop mutually beneficial partnerships, teamwork and synergy with relevant government departments, NGOs and other institutions involved in agricultural development work in the project area.
• Stakeholder relations skills, with particular reference to local communities.
• Support other company initiatives (environmental awareness, communications campaigns, local content, etc.) which contribute to agriculture development as requested.
• Administer/maintain assigned motorcycle, computer and any other organization properties assigned to you.
• Share and present the organizations Grievance Mechanism process in stakeholder, farmers and community meetings.
• Receive, investigate, forward to vendors and ensure vendors close out all vendor related grievances, raised by affected communities, in a timely, fair and consistent manner.
• Responsible for receiving and documenting all grievances at the field level and forwarding them to the organizations’ agriculture development manager.
• Any other duties as directed by the line manager.

Education & Qualifications.

• Minimum experience of 3 years in a similar role or field.
• Relevant Bachelors of diploma level qualification in Agricultural Sciences, Agriculture and Agribusiness value chains, Natural Resources, Sciences or the relevant qualifications or any other relevant field.
• Experience in agricultural and agro-forestry development projects, analysis of existing supply chains and production potential of agricultural biomass also for industrial use.
• Ability to design and manage large-scale agricultural and agroforestry interventions.
• Knowledge of agricultural and agro-forestry production systems, with particular reference to contract farming mechanisms and/or agro-industrial initiatives
• Interpersonal skills, teamwork and management coordination.
• Candidate needs to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have a Valid motorcycle license & off-road motorcycle driving experience not less than 3 years.
• Must be proficient in Ms Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Understanding of farmer group dynamics, aggregation and marketing strategies
• Knowledge of agriculture certification systems.
• Knowledge of farm mapping activities especially with Agronica farm mapping & traceability will be an added advantage
• Prior experience in Bio feed stock will be an added advantage
• Previous NGO or private sector work experience in rural development

Job Skills and Knowledge:

• Farmer participatory approaches
• Project planning & implementation
• Data collection, entry & analysis
• Field level training
• Communication (both verbal & written)
• Knowledge & practical experience of the farmer field school approach
• Managing partner relationships
• Capacity building farmers for sustainable agri-livelihoods.
• Must be a native of the county applying for with fluency in local dialect spoken in the county . 
• Previous experience working in the arid and semi-arid counties. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This position will be based in Bomet and Narok county of operation with field travel to the project sites within the county.
• Contacts/Key Relationships (Internal/External)
• Develop cordial contact and relationship with all the organizations staff in the region and elsewhere and County Government, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries and other private sector development partners.

Job Purpose: 

We are seeking a Field Officer based in West Pokot to assist our client’s Agriculture Development Manager with the management of green initiatives for our client in the “Agri-Hub Project.” This role involves working directly with farmers on a day-to-day basis to ensure compliance and coordination of bio-fuel agriculture development activities within the county. The ideal candidates Must have a strong agricultural technical background, field training experience, and the ability to interact effectively with government officials, private sector stakeholders, and other NGO partners. This position also demands direct experience with the bio-feedstock value chain.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In close working relationship with the agricultural team members, support the agricultural development manager in defining the environmental and geo-pedological characteristics for the development of vegetable oil production initiatives (bio feedstock).
• Support the analysis of local agricultural contexts in West Pokot county and agricultural production systems in rural areas of the county.
• Build the capacity of the local communities to boost and manage their bio feedstock agricultural resources sustainably.
• Identify, profile and support farmer cooperatives, farmer field schools and farmer groups in the county.
• Provide information for the client’s monthly and quarterly reports in the agreed format and according to organizational deadlines.
• Participate actively in weekly, monthly and quarterly staff meetings.
• Participate in routine and annual stakeholder consultations and workshops in furtherance of the client’s work.
• Develop mutually beneficial partnerships, teamwork and synergy with relevant government departments, NGOs and other institutions involved in agricultural development work in the project area.
• Stakeholder relations skills, with particular reference to local communities.
• Support other company initiatives (environmental awareness, communications campaigns, local content, etc.) which contribute to agriculture development as requested.
• Administer/maintain assigned motorcycle, computer and any other organization properties assigned to you.
• Share and present the organizations Grievance Mechanism process in stakeholder, farmers and community meetings.
• Receive, investigate, forward to vendors and ensure vendors close out all vendor related grievances, raised by affected communities, in a timely, fair and consistent manner.
• Responsible for receiving and documenting all grievances at the field level and forwarding them to the organizations’ agriculture development manager.
• Any other duties as directed by the line manager.

Education & Qualifications.

• Minimum experience of 3 years in a similar role or field.
• Relevant Bachelors of diploma level qualification in Agricultural Sciences, Agriculture and Agribusiness value chains, Natural Resources, Sciences or the relevant qualifications or any other relevant field.
• Experience in agricultural and agro-forestry development projects, analysis of existing supply chains and production potential of agricultural biomass also for industrial use.
• Ability to design and manage large-scale agricultural and agroforestry interventions.
• Knowledge of agricultural and agro-forestry production systems, with particular reference to contract farming mechanisms and/or agro-industrial initiatives
• Interpersonal skills, teamwork and management coordination.
• Candidate needs to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must have a Valid motorcycle license & off-road motorcycle driving experience not less than 3 years.
• Must be proficient in Ms Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Understanding of farmer group dynamics, aggregation and marketing strategies
• Knowledge of agriculture certification systems.
• Knowledge of farm mapping activities especially with Agronica farm mapping & traceability will be an added advantage
• Prior experience in Bio feed stock will be an added advantage
• Previous NGO or private sector work experience in rural development

Job Skills and Knowledge:

• Farmer participatory approaches
• Project planning & implementation
• Data collection, entry & analysis
• Field level training
• Communication (both verbal & written)
• Knowledge & practical experience of the farmer field school approach
• Managing partner relationships
• Capacity building farmers for sustainable agri-livelihoods.
• Must be a native of the county applying for with fluency in local dialect spoken in the county . 
• Previous experience working in the arid and semi-arid counties. 

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This position will be based in West Pokot county of operation with field travel to the project sites within the county.
• Contacts/Key Relationships (Internal/External)
• Develop cordial contact and relationship with all the organizations staff in the region and elsewhere and County Government, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries and other private sector development partners.