Agro Processing Specialist

Agriculture, Engineering
Ethiopia, Addis Ababa
February 19, 2026
Full Time - Fixed Term Contract
Urgent
Application ends: February 24, 2026
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Job Description

Position Title: Agro Processing Specialist

Duty Station(s) Addis Ababa

Job Highlight

Develop detailed technical specifications and requirement documentation for the tomato paste/strawberry jam agro-processing plant and ensure the overall implementation of the project.

Job Specific Context

The Technical Specialist will report to the Senior Portfolio Manager and coordinate with both the Procurement and Infrastructure team. He/she will be responsible for developing detailed technical specifications, preparing a design document, leading the technical evaluation, and supporting the overall project implementation.

Role Purpose

The UNOPS Horn of Africa Multi Country Office (HAMCO), Ethiopia office is planning to procure and install a complete tomato paste/ Strawberry jam agro-processing plant.  The plant will include sorting, washing, crushing, juice extraction, concentration, processing, packaging, and ancillary utilities. To ensure a transparent, technically sound, and competitive procurement process, a qualified Agro-Processing Specialist / Consultant is required to develop detailed technical specifications, prepare a design document, lead technical evaluation and support in project implementation

Functions / Key Results Expected

  • Develop detailed technical specifications and requirement documentation for the tomato paste/strawberry jam agro-processing plant.
  • Prepare a design document including reports, drawings and bill of quantities.
  • Support the procurement team in preparing tender documents (RFP/ITB).
  • Execute the technical evaluation of bids.
  • Provide technical support during delivery, pre-installation, installation and testing and commissioning of the machine.
  • Ensure that all designs, specifications, and equipment comply with international standards, national regulations, and applicable food safety and environmental requirements.
  • Integrate energy efficiency, water efficiency, and sustainability considerations into the plant design and equipment selection.
  • Conduct or support technical due diligence and risk assessments related to equipment performance, operability, and maintenance.
  • Review and validate relevant acceptance and commissioning tests, as applicable.
  • Support the development and review of operation and maintenance (O&M) manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Support with the provision of capacity-building and on-the-job training to operators and relevant stakeholders to ensure effective and safe operation of the plant.
  • Coordinate closely with project stakeholders, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely delivery and alignment with project objectives.
  • Support defects notification period (DNP) follow-up and address technical issues arising after commissioning, if required.

Technical Specification Development

  • Conduct market research on available technologies and best practices for tomato paste and strawberry jam production.

Skills

Bill Of Quantities, Commissioning, Food Processing, Food Safety, Plant Design, Process Engineering, Supplier Evaluation, Sustainability, Tender Preparation.

Education Requirements

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Food Process Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering or related fields with 7 years of relevant experience OR
  • Master’s degree (or equivalent) in any of the above or related fields with 5 years of relevant experience is required

Experience Requirements

Required

  • Minimum 7 years’ experience in industrial plant procurement or related experience

Desired

  • Hands-on experience with agro-processing plants, preferably tomato paste and strawberry jam processing or similar food processing facilities.
  • Design development, specification development, supervision and tender evaluation.
  • Demonstrated experience preparing specifications and evaluating tenders for large industrial equipment and turnkey projects.
  • Familiarity with international procurement standards and best practices.

Language Requirements

English, Fluent.

Opportunities for learning and growth

  • Commitment to Excellence: Our support extends to all personnel at every level of the organization.
  • Ongoing Development: We provide ongoing opportunities to help our people learn, develop, and excel at their jobs.
  • State-of-the-Art Learning: Access a wide range of learning through our blended learning programmes, covering Leadership development and Personal and professional development.
  • Key Credentials: Opportunities to benefit from Internationally recognized technical certifications and Membership to professional associations in various areas.
  • Internal Culture: We foster an environment that encourages and supports knowledge sharing and collaboration.