The consultant will:
Assess and optimize the roasting setup and workflow
Operate and calibrate a gas-powered coffee roasting machine (manual system, without PLC or automated controls)
Establish roasting parameters including charge temperature, gas control, airflow, and development time
Develop 3 - 5 repeatable roasting profiles using manual control
Train staff on:
Safe operation of the roaster
Manual heat and airflow management
Profile replication and batch consistency
Routine maintenance and daily equipment checks
Establish basic roast logging and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Diagnose and resolve equipment, process, or operational issues and provide practical recommendations for reliability and efficiency
Deliverables
3 - 5 documented and repeatable roasting profiles
Basic roasting SOPs and operational guidelines
Roast logging template
Staff able to independently operate the machine and reproduce profiles
Brief technical summary with key operational recommendations
Duration, Location & Travel
Contract duration: 1 - 2 months (intensive on-site engagement)
Interviews will be conducted in person in Nairobi, Kenya.
The assignment will take place at an operational site outside Kenya though within the region.
The consultant must be willing and able to travel regionally and work on-site in a remote or developing operational environment.
Required Qualifications
Minimum 3 - 5 years hands-on coffee roasting experience
Proven ability to operate gas-powered roasting equipment
Experience working with manual roasting systems (without PLC or automated profile control)
Demonstrated ability to develop and standardize roast profiles through manual control
Strong technical and mechanical understanding of roasting equipment
Proven troubleshooting and operational problem-solving skills
Experience training operational staff
Practical, hands-on working style and ability to operate independently