Bio-Processing Engineering Graduate Trainee (2 Positions) Jobs – Kyagalanyi Coffee

Job Overview

Kyagalanyi Coffee Limited, Uganda’s oldest licensed coffee exporter, is expanding its processing capabilities in Mbale and seeks two enthusiastic Bio-Processing Engineering Graduate Trainees today. The trainees will be integrated into the coffee processing unit, supporting the transformation of raw beans into high-value products.

This graduate trainee programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial practice. Participants will receive structured guidance while actively contributing to real-world projects that affect product quality, yield, and sustainability.

Successful candidates will gain exposure to modern bioprocessing equipment, including bioreactors, filtration units, and analytical laboratories. The role offers a platform to successfully develop technical competence and professional confidence in a fast-growing agro-industrial environment.

By joining Kyagalanyi Coffee, trainees become part of a team committed to excellence, innovation, and responsible sourcing, helping to maintain the company’s reputation as a leading coffee processor in East Africa.

Founded in 1992 following the liberalisation of Uganda’s coffee sector, Kyagalanyi Coffee operates as a subsidiary of the global Volcafe Group. The company is renowned for producing premium Arabica and Robusta beans that meet stringent international standards.

Key Responsibilities

Under the supervision of senior process engineers, the graduate trainee will be involved in various stages of the bioprocessing workflow. The responsibilities are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of both upstream and downstream operations.

• Assist in designing and optimizing bioprocesses such as fermentation, enzyme reactions, and cell culture for coffee-derived products.
• Operate and monitor bioreactors and fermentation systems, ensuring temperature, pH, and oxygen levels remain within specified ranges.
• Support downstream processing steps including filtration, centrifugation, and chromatography to purify and recover target compounds.
• Collect and record process data, perform basic analysis, and help identify trends or deviations from standard operating procedures.
• Participate in quality control activities by testing samples, verifying compliance with GMP and food safety standards, and documenting results.
• Contribute to research and development projects aimed at improving yield, reducing waste, or developing new coffee-based bioproducts.
• Assist in the calibration and maintenance of process instrumentation to ensure accurate readings and reliable operation.
• Support technical trials and pilot runs, documenting observations and assisting with scale-up considerations.

Qualifications & Experience

Applicants should possess a solid academic foundation in engineering or life sciences, complemented by practical skills that enable immediate contribution to the team. The following criteria outline the minimum and preferred qualifications for the role.

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Bio-Processing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Strong understanding of fundamental bioprocess principles including microbial growth, enzyme kinetics, and mass transfer.
• Practical laboratory experience with basic techniques such as pipetting, spectrophotometry, and simple fermentation assays.
• Good communication skills, ability to work in a team, and willingness to learn on the job.
• Familiarity with standard operating procedures and basic documentation practices in a manufacturing environment.

Desirable

• Experience with industrial bioreactors, pilot-scale fermentation, or downstream processing equipment.
• Knowledge of coffee processing steps, quality attributes, or food safety regulations relevant to the Ugandan market.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Excel, Minitab, or basic statistical software.
• Experience in preparing technical reports, presenting findings, or participating in cross-functional team meetings.

Candidates who demonstrate initiative, problem-solving ability, and a passion for sustainable agriculture will be favoured during the selection process.

What the Role Offers

The trainee package is structured to support professional growth, provide competitive remuneration, and ensure a safe and conducive learning environment. Below are the key benefits offered to successful candidates.

• Competitive monthly stipend aligned with graduate trainee standards in Uganda’s manufacturing sector.
• Structured mentorship program with experienced process engineers and senior technical staff.
• Access to on-the-job training, workshops, and certifications related to bioprocessing and food safety.
• Opportunity to contribute to sustainable coffee value-chain initiatives and gain exposure to international best practices.
• Chance to work on interdisciplinary projects that link processing, quality assurance, and supply chain logistics.

Additionally, trainees receive regular performance feedback and have the opportunity to network with professionals across the Volcafe Group’s global operations and career development.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should prepare their application documents carefully, ensuring that all requested items are included and clearly labelled. Incomplete applications may not be considered for further review.

Please submit your updated CV, copies of academic certificates, and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in bioprocessing and coffee industry. Make sure to indicate the reference ‘Bio-Processing Engineering Graduate Trainee’ in your application. Please apply now by clicking the link below.

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