About the Organisation

Ruko Establishments Limited is a Ugandan company dedicated to improving lives through innovative dairy solutions, high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and environmentally friendly practices that benefit communities and the environment. Committed to producing premium dairy products that nourish families in Uganda and beyond, Ruko has expanded its distribution network to include partnerships in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan. 

Job Summary

The Machine Operator - High Value Dairy Products at Ruko Establishments Milk Factory operates, monitors, and maintains equipment used for receiving, pasteurizing, and processing high-value dairy products such as raw milk, yogurt bases, ice cream, and butter. The role ensures compliance with quality, hygiene, safety, and efficiency standards, supporting seamless production from milk receipt to packaging.

Roles, Duties, and Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor production equipment, including pasteurizers, homogenizers, separators, chillers, mixers, churns, freezers, and packaging machines
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment startup, operation, Cleaning in Place (CIP), and shutdown
• Maintain process parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, flow rates, time) within specified ranges
• Execute daily production plans for milk pasteurization, yogurt base, butter, and ice cream as directed by the supervisor
• Ensure smooth flow of raw milk through all stages, from pasteurization to standardization and product lines
• Conduct regular quality checks during processing and report deviations to the supervisor
• Adhere to GMP, HACCP, ISO 22000, and UNBS standards for equipment and workplace hygiene
• Handle milk, cream, butter, and ice cream hygienically to ensure food safety
• Accurately complete production records, logbooks, equipment checklists, and batch reports
• Track material usage, product output, losses, and processing for traceability and reconciliation
• Perform basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting to minimize downtime
• Report technical issues to the maintenance team promptly and assist with repairs as needed
• Manage raw and processed materials to reduce waste and spoilage
• Track input vs. output to identify and report process losses for material reconciliation
• Comply with workplace safety rules and attend regular health and safety meetings
• Maintain clean work areas and up-to-date documentation for audits and inspections
• Collaborate with UHT Supervisors, quality control, and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations
• Attend daily production meetings and contribute to improvements in UHT and high-value product lines

Qualifications, Education, and Competencies

• Certificate or diploma in Dairy Science, Food Processing Technology, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• 2–3 years of hands-on experience operating equipment for milk pasteurization, yogurt, butter, or ice cream production in a dairy or FMCG setting
• Strong understanding of machine operation and dairy processing
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, including ISO 9001, ISO 22000, HACCP, and GMP
• High attention to detail and adherence to technical instructions
• Effective communication and writing skills
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word) and digital production tools (preferred)
• Physical fitness to work in a demanding production environment (standing, lifting, cleaning)

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Amount of milk received and processed per shift
• Number of successful batches of ice cream, butter, and yogurt base produced per shift
• Compliance with quality standards for process parameters
• Raw material and product losses per shift
• Completion of CIP and equipment hygiene standards
• Production downtime and equipment uptime
• Timeliness and accuracy of reports and documentation

How to Apply

Interested candidates meeting the above criteria should apply by clicking the link below and clearly stating the position applied for. Applications must include:

• A cover letter
• An updated CV
• Copies of relevant professional and academic certifications

All documents should be compiled into one (1) PDF file before submission.

Address to: The Human Resource Manager, Ruko Establishments Limited

Apply Now

Shortlisting will be done on an ongoing basis. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of consideration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Deadline: 7 November 2025