About Company
Obaji Rice Mill is a leading indigenous rice processing company based in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Leveraging the rich agricultural bounty of the region, we are committed to producing high-quality, nutritious rice products for local and national consumption. Our operations integrate modern processing techniques with sustainable practices, ensuring both product excellence and environmental responsibility. We pride ourselves on contributing significantly to food security and economic development in the community by empowering local farmers and creating employment opportunities. At Obaji Rice Mill, innovation and quality are at the heart of everything we do, from sourcing paddy to final packaging. We are a growing company eager to expand our product offerings and enhance our processing efficiency.
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Job Description
Are you a passionate and innovative Food Scientist eager to make a tangible impact on the quality and development of staple food products? Obaji Rice Mill is seeking a dedicated Food Scientist to join our dynamic team in Abakaliki, Ebonyi. This pivotal role involves overseeing and improving our rice processing operations, ensuring superior product quality, and exploring new product development opportunities. You will be instrumental in maintaining strict quality control standards, conducting research into new processing technologies, and developing innovative rice-based products that meet consumer needs and market demands. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food science, with a particular emphasis on grain processing, quality assurance, and food safety protocols. You will work closely with production, quality control, and management teams to implement best practices and drive continuous improvement. This role is critical for ensuring that Obaji Rice Mill continues to deliver products that not only meet but exceed national and international quality standards. Your expertise will be vital in optimizing processes for efficiency, yield, and nutritional value, from initial cleaning and de-husking to milling, polishing, and final packaging. Furthermore, you will be at the forefront of our efforts to innovate, including researching new rice varieties, developing value-added products (e.g., fortified rice, rice flour), and exploring sustainable processing methods. We expect you to lead scientific investigations, conduct sensory evaluations, and analyze data to inform product improvements and new formulations. You will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant food safety regulations and certifications. If you are passionate about food science, possess a strong analytical mind, and are ready to contribute to a growing enterprise focused on agricultural excellence in Abakaliki, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct research and development for new rice-based products and processing methods.
- Implement and oversee quality control procedures to ensure product consistency and safety.
- Monitor and analyze product samples throughout the processing stages for quality, nutritional content, and compliance.
- Develop and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all food processing activities.
- Ensure strict adherence to national and international food safety regulations and certifications (e.g., NAFDAC, SON, HACCP).
- Troubleshoot production issues related to product quality, raw materials, or processing equipment.
- Collaborate with agricultural teams to assess raw material quality and provide feedback for improvements.
- Perform sensory evaluations and shelf-life studies on new and existing products.
- Prepare detailed reports on product development, quality control findings, and process improvements.
- Stay updated with industry trends, scientific advancements, and regulatory changes in food science and technology.
- Train production staff on food safety practices, quality control measures, and new processing techniques.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science and Technology, Food Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of practical experience in a food processing or manufacturing environment, preferably with grains/rice.
- Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and processing principles.
- Proficiency in quality control and assurance methodologies (HACCP, GMP).
- Knowledge of NAFDAC and SON regulations and food safety standards.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to conduct scientific research and data analysis.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Food Science or a related discipline.
- Experience with rice milling and value-added rice product development.
- Certifications in HACCP or Food Safety Management Systems.
- Familiarity with laboratory equipment and analytical techniques.
- Experience in a start-up or rapidly growing food company.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Conducive and collaborative work environment.
- Contribution to a vital sector of the Nigerian economy.
- Annual performance bonuses.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please submit your resume/CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role at Obaji Rice Mill. Ensure your cover letter highlights your understanding of food science principles as applied to grain processing and your commitment to quality.
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