Job Details

Job Description

Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited (ETF) is jointly owned by Zambia Fruit Company and Vitaplus Foods Limited, under the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The Company operates a hybrid fruit and vegetable processing plant located in Katete District, Eastern Province of Zambia.

Role Overview:

The Blow Mold Operator will support the production of high-quality plastic containers used in fruit juice and pulp packaging at Eastern Tropical Fruits Limited (ETF). This role is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of blow molding machines, ensuring consistent output, minimal downtime, and compliance with food safety and packaging quality standards.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

• Operate blow molding machines to produce plastic containers according to specifications.
• Monitor machine parameters and make adjustments to maintain optimal performance.
• Conduct mold changeovers and equipment setup according to production schedules.
• Inspect finished containers for defects, weight accuracy, and packaging quality.
• Perform in-process quality checks and report deviations to the Packaging
• Supervisor or Maintenance Team.
• Carry out routine machine maintenance, cleaning, and lubrication.
• Report faults or breakdowns promptly and assist with troubleshooting as needed.
• Ensure adherence to hygiene, sanitation, and food safety protocols in a food-grade production environment.
• Coordinate with filling and packaging teams to align output with production needs.
• Maintain accurate production logs, including volumes, mold changes, faults, and maintenance activities.
• Comply with workplace health and safety guidelines, using PPE appropriately.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Grade 12 Certificate with five (5) O Levels.
• Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience operating blow molding machines, preferably in a food or beverage production environment.
• Knowledge of plastic packaging quality standards and machinery operation.
• Awareness of food safety standards such as HACCP and ISO 22000.
• Membership with a recognized professional regulatory body is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of plastic materials and the blow moulding process is a distinct advantage.

Required Competencies and Skills:

• Technical Aptitude: Ability to operate and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical components of blow moulding machines.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in inspecting bottles for defects and monitoring machine parameters.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly identify and resolve minor machine or quality issues.
• Safety Consciousness: Strong commitment to following safety procedures and working responsibly with machinery.
• Physical Stamina: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks and working in a factory environment.

Application Process:

Qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to the success of Eastern Tropical Fruit Company Limited and are willing to be based in Katete District, Eastern Province, should submit their applications online by clicking or typing in the web browser and completing the online form below:

https://www.idc.co.zm/careers/job-vacancies/

The deadline for receiving applications shall be 30th September 2025.

Eastern Tropical Fruits Limited is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.