Project Specialist

Job Description

RCL FOODS is a deeply rooted South African food manufacturer that produces some of the country’s most-loved brands, including Yum Yum peanut butter, Nola mayonnaise, Ouma rusks, and Selati sugar, just to name a few. At the heart of our culture and strategy is our Purpose – WE GROW WHAT MATTERS – which reflects our belief in collectively doing that little more to create a positive impact that truly matters.

Visit our website: www.rclfoods.com

RCL FOODS is seeking a Project Specialist to join our Milling division. The role will be based in Pretoria West and reports to the Plant Engineer.

Purpose of the role:

To manage Capital Expenditure (Capex) projects within our milling FMCG factory. The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end planning, execution, and delivery of engineering projects on site, ensuring alignment with business objectives, budgets, safety standards, and timelines

Duties & Responsibilities

• Implement CAPEX projects from initiation to close-out within budget, scope, and time.
• Provide CAPEX motivations, cost estimations, feasibility studies and post CAPEX project reviews.
• Conduct feasibility studies, scope definition, and budgeting for capital projects.
• Prepare and review technical specifications, drawings, and tender documents.
• Be able to apply mechanical engineering good practises and calculations
• Liaise with internal stakeholders (Production, Quality, SHEQ, Procurement) to define project requirements.
• Manage procurement of equipment and services in collaboration with supply chain teams.
• Coordinate with contractors, suppliers, and service providers to ensure compliance with specifications and timelines.
• Oversee site installations, equipment commissioning, and ensure project safety compliance.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Ensure all documentation (technical, financial, legal) is complete and maintained.
• Continuously seek opportunities to optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency.
• Ensure all projects align with industry regulations, company standards, and sustainability goals.

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Minimum Requirements

• B.Eng or B.Tech. Eng or N.Dip in Mechanical Engineering

• Project Diploma (Advantageous)

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in an FMCG, food manufacturing, or industrial setting.

• Strong background in managing Capital projects.

• Strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Experience in milling or grain processing environments would be advantageous.

Knowledge and skills:

• Proven track record of managing Capex projects, from inception to close-out.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, plant installations, and process equipment.
• Excellent project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental regulations in a factory setting.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced skills in MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word, MS Visio, MS Projects.
• Excellent understanding of wheat and maize milling principles.
• Must be able to work flexible hours and some weekends if required.
• Excellent leadership skills (leading self, others, change & performance).
• Constantly looking and finding ways to improve plant efficiency and effectiveness.
• Regularly reviews and monitors progress, taking action to reschedule and reprioritize.
• Understand the full implications of potential problems and minimize their impact.