Title:  Automation and PCD Engineer

We Go Places! How about you?

Location: Kiambu
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Supply Chain - Production
Type of Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 09-04-2025

Join KWAL and be a part of something bigger, as we accelerate excellence as a proud member of the HEINEKEN global family.  While we unlock new opportunities and shape the next chapter of our journey, KWAL is embedding a high-performing, agile business driven by innovation and purpose. If you're energized by transformation and inspired to make a meaningful difference, this is your moment to lead change and grow with a business that’s going places – fast!

Job Purpose

This position is responsible for ensuring the reliability and security of equipment, with a primary focus on addressing automation breakdowns, driving and supporting supply chain function in the implementation of measures that reduce risks of Cyber Threats, as well as maintaining and sustaining processes, systems, competences among others. To keep the security measures in place and updated while driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Main Responsibilities

Design and Development

• Develop initial design concepts for new automation and PCD systems and components, considering functionality, cost, and manufacturability
• Choose appropriate materials for automation and PCD systems components, balancing factors such as strength, durability, and cost.
• Prepare comprehensive documentation for designs, including technical specifications, test plans, and user manuals.
   

System Reliability and Maintenance/ (Problem Solving)

• Drive and support supply chain function in the implementation of measures that reduce risks of Cyber Threats
• Maintain and sustain processes, systems, competences etc. to keep the security measures in place and updated
• Organise and maintain the PCD asset Inventory list
• Ensure the continuous and reliable operation of automation systems and equipment.
• Perform regular preventive maintenance and timely repairs to minimize system downtime.
• Monitor system performance and implement improvements to enhance reliability and efficiency.
• Introduces basic maintenance plans on all equipment on statutory, OEM or Global Maintenance Standards.
• Set up basic spare part segmentation and define critical spares.
• No change (MOC) or modification activities, only restore to basic condition activities.
• Support sourcing strategy; i.e. sets up basic maintenance supplier agreements and/or SLA's.
• Propose AM support policy for automation and support implementation.
• Support engineering manager (EM) in maintaining an automation master plan.
   

Automation and Control Systems Development

• Design, programming, and implementing automation solutions to improve production processes.
• Develop,maintain and update software for programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other control systems.
• Collaborate with other engineering teams to integrate new technologies and automation solutions.
   

Safety and Compliance

• Ensure all automation systems and practices comply with safety regulations and industry standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement measures to mitigate potential hazards.
• Keep updated with the latest safety guidelines and ensure adherence in all activities.
• Ensures HeiQuest compliance for Process Control Domain (PCD) Security.
• Implement Patch Strategy for devices and mitigation plans for devices which cannot be patched
• Implement the PCD Backup procedures for all PCD assets
• Manage local PCD security incidents according to local crisis manual
• Collect quality related maintenance tasks and translate them into maintenance plans for execution, including calibration activities.
   

Safety, Food Safety & Sustainability

• Collect safety related maintenance tasks and translate into maintenance plans for execution.
• Collect legal related maintenance tasks and translate them into maintenance plans for execution.
• Execute safety diagnostics based on safety reports and inspections
   

TPM & Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implementing automation solutions to optimize performance.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implementing automation solutions to optimize performance.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and software.
• Implement systematic breakdown analysis and reduction system (BDA).
• Monitor impact of PM activities (MTBF, MTBS, MTBA, …) and support countermeasures to improve preventive maintenance (PM) and autonomous maintenance (AM) roll-out.
• Start improvement on focus equipment to eliminate abnormalities and develop basic skills in maintenance and operating teams via training.
   

Information & Data Management

• Key-user of the CMMS. OPI (and other ME-) data registration in the CMMS.
• Report on maintenance KPI's; i.e. % assets restored to basic condition, nr. of breakdowns, % ABC analysis complete, OPI score and/or line performance, % PM plans OTIF and % asset master data as built.
   

Minimum Required Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience

Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Plant Automation, Electrical ,Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering

Professional Qualifications

• Relevant professional qualification as applicable to the role

Experience 

• At least 4 years experience in a similar role
• Work experience within an FMCG environment will be advantageous
• Strong knowledge of automation software, PLCs, and control systems
   

Competencies

Technical Competencies

• Strong knowledge of automation software tools and platforms
• Good knowledge of PCD Security concepts
• Affinity with IT systems and understands IT concepts
• Experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining electrical and control systems for industrial automation.
• Skills in integrating various automation systems and equipment to create cohesive and efficient production processes.
• Ability to analyze system performance data, generate reports, and provide insights to optimize automation processes.
• Competence in managing automation projects, including planning, execution, and coordination with cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion and adherence to specifications.
• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) to ensure reliable and efficient automation processes.

Behavioural Competencies

• Demonstrates meticulous attention to detail when programming and maintaining automation systems, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
• Exhibits strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues efficiently.
• Shows flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances, new technologies, and unexpected challenges in automation projects.
• Proactively identifies opportunities for process improvements and takes the initiative to implement innovative automation solutions.
   

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) was incorporated in 1969 and over the years KWAL has become a leading East African beverage champion in the manufacturing, exporting and importation of a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. KWAL is a HEINEKEN OpCo.