Assistant Boiler & Kitchen Equipment Operator at Food For Education

Position Overview

The Assistant Boiler & Kitchen Equipment Operator provides essential support to the Boiler Operator in ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of LPG and/or briquette-fired steam boilers, steam distribution systems, and steam-powered cooking equipment.

This role focuses on routine boiler operations, monitoring, loading and unloading, and assisting with preventive maintenance under the guidance of the Boiler Operator. The Assistant Operator also contributes to accurate record-keeping and cross-functional kitchen support.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operations & Oversight

• Assist in starting, monitoring, and shutting down steam boilers in line with approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Load briquettes and remove ash under supervision, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.
• Monitor gauges, meters, and indicators and promptly report anomalies to the Boiler Operator.
• Support in the operation of steam-powered kitchen equipment (vessels, kettles, mixers, tilting mechanisms, steam lines).

Maintenance & Support

• Perform daily checks (water levels, pressure, temperature) and log readings.
• Conduct basic cleaning and routine servicing under the direction of the Boiler Operator.
• Report equipment malfunctions immediately to the Boiler Operator and Kitchen Manager.
• Assist in preventive maintenance activities and preparation of tools or spares for repair work.

Reporting & Safety

• Maintain accurate operational and safety logs.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Participate in safety drills and refresher training.
• Promptly escalate safety concerns to the Boiler Operator or Kitchen Manager.

Cross-Training & Coverage

• Support kitchen operations during boiler downtime (e.g., handling pallet trucks, cleaning, assisting food preparation areas as needed).
• Learn from the Boiler Operator to build capacity for independent boiler handling.
• Provide coverage in case of Boiler Operator absence, under supervision from the Project Associate and Kitchen Manager.

Emergency Response

• Assist in responding to alarms and emergencies by carrying out tasks delegated by the Boiler Operator.
• Help isolate equipment safely during emergency shutdowns.

Desired Candidate Profile

• KCSE certificate or equivalent.
• Prior exposure to an industrial kitchen or manufacturing environment is an advantage.
• Willingness to undertake Boiler Operator training and pursue a valid Kenyan Boiler Operator Certificate.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and interest in learning boiler systems and kitchen equipment.
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
• Physically fit to work in high-temperature environments and lift up to 25 kg.

Other Requirements

• Strong commitment to safety and operational discipline.
• Attention to detail in record-keeping and reporting.
• Eagerness to learn and grow into a fully certified Boiler Operator role.