Salima Sugar Company Limited (SSCL) is a limited liability company incorporated in Malawi under the Companies Act, with its postal address at P.O. Box 200, Lilongwe. The Company’s Head Office is situated at Matundu Mbulo Office Complex, behind Gateway Mall, Area 47 Sector 1, Lilongwe.
SSCL is a subsidiary of Greenbelt Investments Holdings Limited and is engaged in the development of sugar plantations, production of sugar and its by-products for the Malawi and export markets.
The Company is looking for a dynamic, disciplined and well-experienced individual to fill the position of Chief Engineer.
Job Summary
- Employer: Salima Sugar Company Limited
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Salima, Malawi
- Category: Engineering
- Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership, direction, guidance and mentorship to the SSCL Engineering Department.
- Communicate company goals and objectives to engineers and other professionals within the team.
- Ensure timely attendance to maintenance and repair works to minimize plant stoppages and downtime.
- Supervise engineering operations across the entire factory, from the Cane Yard through to the sugar output silos.
- Calculate costs, materials, labour requirements and time required for engineering processes and projects.
- Ensure the availability of essential spare parts, materials and consumables.
- Conduct regular meetings with the factory engineering team to review progress and take appropriate action.
- Approve and monitor engineering budgets and expenditure within the required authority.
- Delegate tasks and responsibilities to engineering teams.
- Supervise staff training and equipment installation.
- Conduct quality control checks on engineering systems and related products.
- Resolve staff disputes promptly and professionally.
- Recognize and reward good performance.
- Analyze engineering and operational data and prepare reports for management review.
- Ensure compliance with applicable engineering, safety and operational standards.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant Engineering field. A Master’s Degree will be an added advantage.
- Membership of a recognized Engineering Professional Body.
- Minimum of 8 years’ experience in a busy factory environment, including experience leading or supervising a team.
- Sound and proven understanding of engineering principles.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain a positive attitude, restore morale and build a disciplined factory team.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to process negative feedback and remain professional.
- Ability to work both onsite and in an office environment.
- Ability to stand, sit and walk for extended periods.
How to Apply
Address: postal address at P.O. Box 200, Lilongwe. The Company’s Head Office is situated at Matundu Mbulo Office Complex, behind Gateway Mall, Area 47 Sector 1, Lil
About the Company
Salima Sugar Company Limited is a sugar producer operating in Malawi's Salima District, where it cultivates its own sugarcane and sources additional supply from small-scale outgrower farmers. The company processes raw cane into refined sugar products for distribution across Malawi and the broader Southern African region. By integrating large-scale estate production with smallholder procurement, Salima Sugar supports rural livelihoods while supplying essential commodities to domestic and export markets. Its operations represent a significant agricultural employer in central Malawi, contributing to the country's sugar industry alongside established competitors.
Growing quality sugarcane, serving Malawi's sweet needs.
Website: https://www.salimasugars.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Chief Engineer role at a sugar company in Malawi?
A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering from a recognized institution like the University of Malawi or Mzuzu University is usually required. Professional registration with the Engineering Institution of Malawi (EIM) is essential, and additional certifications in industrial maintenance or sugar processing technology are highly advantageous.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Engineer in Malawi's sugar industry?
The Chief Engineer oversees maintenance of crushing mills, boilers, and power generation systems while ensuring continuous factory operations during harvest season. They manage technical teams, coordinate with agricultural operations, and ensure compliance with Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority standards and factory safety regulations.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for senior engineering roles in Malawian agro-processing companies?
Employers expect long hours during the crushing season from May to December, with 24/7 availability for emergency breakdowns. Hierarchical respect is important, and engineers must demonstrate practical problem-solving skills alongside formal qualifications, often working with limited spare parts availability.
What career progression opportunities exist for Chief Engineers in Malawi's sugar and agro-processing sector?
Experienced Chief Engineers can advance to Factory Manager, Technical Director, or Group Engineering Manager roles across multiple estates. Some transition to consulting or join regulatory bodies like EIM, while others move into regional positions with multinational agro-processing firms operating in Southern Africa.
What benefits are typically included in senior engineering positions at established Malawian companies?
Benefits usually include medical aid through schemes like MASM or Liberty Health, pension contributions to NICO or Old Mutual, and annual leave of 18-24 days. Housing or housing allowance, transport provision, and performance bonuses tied to factory efficiency metrics are commonly offered.
How should I apply for a Chief Engineer position, and what do Malawian employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through company websites, newspaper advertisements in The Nation or Daily Times, or professional networks like EIM. Employers prioritize hands-on experience with heavy industrial equipment, proven leadership of technical teams, and familiarity with local supply chains and maintenance challenges specific to Malawian operating conditions.