Sugar Process Consultant

The Sugar Milling Research Institute NPC (SMRI) based in Durban is a world leader in the science and technology of sugarcane processing. The mandate of the SMRI is to provide technical support to its members to enable the sustainability of the sugarcane processing industries in South and southern Africa.

The SMRI seeks to appoint a high calibre self-motivated and experienced Sugar Process Consultant at middle management level to join our dynamic Sugar Technology team. This will be a permanent appointment and the salary will be commensurate with experience. The candidate should have a flair for and a passion for providing high-level technical support to the sugarcane processing industry. This will include the areas of industrial consulting training technology transfer research and factory performance management.

The ideal candidate will have proven sugar technology knowledge strong problem-solving skills and be familiar with factory operations at a practical level. A proven track record in industrial consulting (preferably in sugar processing) and technology transfer would be advantageous. The successful candidate will be required to travel within South and southern Africa to provide support services to the SMRIs member mills / clients.

Requirements:

Qualifications:

A relevant Graduate / Post-Graduate degree minimum of BScEng (Chem) or BTech (Chem Eng) with experience in the field preferably with professional registration.

Experience:

• Sound knowledge of sugar technology is essential. General exposure to the South and southern African sugar industry is preferred.
• Minimum of five years relevant industrial experience in the application of factors affecting sugar processes and production management.

Competencies/skills:

• Ability to work independently within a small team and eagerness to learn and apply newly acquired skills;
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills;
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills;
• Computer Literacy in MS Office software Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) etc;
• Proven modelling capabilities. Experience with the Sugars software is advantageous;
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of sugarcane factory performance figures;
• Ability to identify industry needs and package technical solutions e.g. training benchmarking and decision support;
• An understanding of research and development;
• Ability to communicate appropriately and effectively at all levels;
• Fluent in English: reading writing and speaking;
• Excellent technical writing and presentation skills;
• Coaching and mentoring skills.

To apply for the abovementioned position you are required to submit the following:

• A one-page cover letter quoting the reference number JA251112 and detailing why you believe you are the ideal candidate for this position.
• A short Curriculum Vitae of maximum 3 pages detailing your relevant qualification(s) experience and contactable references.

The closing date for applications is strictly by midday on 31 December 2025 at the following contact:

e-Mail:

If you have not been contacted by 31 January 2026 please consider your application as unsuccessful.The SMRI reserves the right not to make an appointment.