Food Processing Plant Manager Job Vacancy in Debre Zeyit, Ethiopia – Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Job Description

Position:Food Processing Plant Manager

Company:Cargill Ethiopia

Location:Debre Zeyit, Ethiopia

Experience:8+ years in food processing operations management

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Engineering, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Food & Beverage Manufacturing

Department:Operations

Salary:250,000 – 350,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Cargill Ethiopia is a leading global agribusiness and food production company with a strong commitment to sustainable growth in the Horn of Africa. Operating for over three decades, Cargill has built a reputation for delivering high‑quality food ingredients, grain handling, and value‑added processing solutions across Ethiopia. The company’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities in Debre Zeyit serve as a hub for processing wheat, corn, and other staple crops into consumer‑ready products that reach both local markets and export destinations. Cargill’s focus on innovation, food safety, and community development makes it a top employer for professionals seeking rewarding career opportunities in Ethiopia. As part of its expansion strategy, Cargill is looking for a visionary Food Processing Plant Manager to lead its flagship plant, ensuring operational excellence, product quality, and continuous improvement. This role offers a unique chance to contribute to Ethiopia’s food security while advancing your career in a multinational environment.

Job Overview

The Food Processing Plant Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of plant operations, from raw material intake to finished product distribution. Reporting directly to the Regional Operations Director, the manager will drive efficiency, maintain compliance with international food safety standards, and foster a culture of safety and teamwork. This position plays a critical role in supporting Cargill’s mission to provide safe, nutritious food and to create sustainable employment opportunities in Ethiopia. The role is central to Cargill’s growth plans and will involve close collaboration with supply chain, quality assurance, engineering, and commercial teams.

Key performance indicators include production throughput, cost per unit, waste reduction, employee safety metrics, and customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will be instrumental in implementing lean manufacturing principles, advancing automation initiatives, and ensuring that the plant meets both local regulatory requirements and Cargill’s global standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily plant operations, ensuring production targets are met while maintaining product quality and safety.
• Develop and execute continuous improvement programs using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team of supervisors, technicians, and operators, fostering a high‑performance culture.
• Oversee budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting for the plant, aiming to achieve cost‑per‑unit reductions.
• Ensure compliance with Ethiopian food safety regulations, HACCP, ISO 22000, and Cargill’s internal standards.
• Coordinate with procurement, logistics, and sales teams to align production schedules with market demand.
• Drive sustainability initiatives, including waste minimization, energy efficiency, and water conservation.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and people‑management abilities with a focus on coaching and development.
• Deep knowledge of food processing technologies, equipment maintenance, and automation.
• Proficiency in data‑driven decision making and performance analytics.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to implement corrective actions quickly.
• Effective communication skills in English; knowledge of Amharic is an advantage.
• Demonstrated experience with food safety certifications and regulatory compliance.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Food Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as Certified Food Scientist (CFS) or Six Sigma Black Belt are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in food processing operations, with at least three (3) years in a supervisory or managerial role overseeing a large‑scale manufacturing facility.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from 250,000 to 350,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Paid annual leave and public holidays.
• Transportation allowance or company vehicle.
• Professional development budget.
• Employee assistance program.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Cargill’s safety, quality, and operational standards.
• Continuous leadership development workshops.
• Technical training on latest food processing equipment and automation tools.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and certifications.

Working Environment

The plant operates in a modern, climate‑controlled facility equipped with advanced processing lines, laboratory testing labs, and automated material handling systems. Employees work in a collaborative environment that emphasizes safety, innovation, and respect for diversity. Shift work may be required to meet production demands, with appropriate shift differentials applied.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through Cargill’s online career portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For more information about Cargill Ethiopia and its career opportunities, visit the main website: https://ethiopiajobssearch.com

Explore additional regional opportunities at our partner site: https://www.ugandajobssearch.com/

Equal Opportunity Statement

Cargill Ethiopia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or background. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.