Tupande Pyrolysis Operator ( Fixed-Term) at One Acre Fund

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

Career Growth and Development

• We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You’ll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You’ll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

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 interval