Manufacturing Process Engineer Job Vacancy in Harare, Zimbabwe – Manufacturing

Job Description

Position: Manufacturing Process Engineer

Company: Unilever Zimbabwe

Location: Harare, Zimbabwe

Experience: 5+ years in manufacturing process engineering

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Manufacturing

Department: Engineering

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

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Unilever Zimbabwe is a leading consumer goods company with a legacy of delivering trusted brands across food, home care, and personal care categories. Operating for over 80 years in the region, Unilever combines global expertise with local insight to meet the evolving needs of Zimbabwean consumers. As part of its commitment to sustainable growth, the company invests heavily in modern manufacturing facilities, research and development, and community initiatives that support economic development and environmental stewardship.

The Harare manufacturing plant is a state‑of‑the‑art facility that produces a wide range of products, from detergents to edible oils, adhering to the highest international quality standards. With a workforce of more than 1,200 employees, Unilever Zimbabwe fosters a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and inclusion, making it a top employer for those seeking long‑term career growth in the manufacturing sector.

Unilever’s strategic focus on innovation, digital transformation, and responsible sourcing creates a dynamic environment where engineering talent can drive real impact. The company’s commitment to diversity, employee well‑being, and community engagement positions it as a preferred destination for professionals looking for meaningful career opportunities in Zimbabwe.

Job Overview

The Manufacturing Process Engineer will play a pivotal role in optimizing production lines, improving process efficiency, and ensuring product quality across Unilever’s Harare plant. Reporting to the Plant Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to design, implement, and monitor engineering solutions that align with corporate sustainability goals and operational excellence targets. This role offers a unique platform to contribute to large‑scale manufacturing projects while developing expertise in advanced process engineering techniques.

For more information about Unilever’s vision and other career opportunities, visit the official portal at Zimbabwe Job Search. This position is a key component of Unilever’s broader strategy to attract top talent and reinforce its status as a leader in the manufacturing industry, supporting the growing demand for high‑quality consumer goods in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing production processes and identify opportunities for cost reduction, yield improvement, and waste minimization.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance process reliability and safety.
• Lead root‑cause investigations for process deviations and coordinate corrective actions with quality and maintenance teams.
• Collaborate with R&D and product development teams to scale new product launches from pilot to full‑scale production.
• Utilize statistical process control (SPC) tools and Six Sigma methodologies to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), cycle time, and energy consumption.
• Provide technical training and mentorship to production operators and junior engineers.
• Ensure compliance with local regulatory standards, environmental policies, and Unilever’s internal sustainability framework.

Required Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with proficiency in data‑driven decision making.
• Hands‑on experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, MATLAB) and PLC programming.
• Excellent communication skills for interfacing with multidisciplinary teams and senior management.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of hands‑on experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably within the fast‑moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Demonstrated track record of leading process improvement projects and delivering measurable results is essential.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive monthly salary ranging from SSP 250,000 to SSP 350,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and annual salary reviews are part of the compensation package.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Discounts on Unilever products and partner services.

Training

• On‑boarding program that includes plant safety, quality standards, and company culture.
• Continuous professional development through internal workshops, external certifications, and mentorship.
• Access to Unilever’s global learning platform for technical and leadership courses.

Working Environment

Unilever Zimbabwe offers a collaborative, inclusive, and safety‑first workplace. The Harare plant operates on a shift basis, and the Engineering department works closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams to ensure seamless operations. Employees benefit from modern facilities, advanced equipment, and a supportive management structure that encourages innovation.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online application portal on the company’s website. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Unilever Zimbabwe is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. Our hiring practices reflect our dedication to fairness and merit‑based selection, supporting the broader goal of employment in Zimbabwe.