Biocomp Nepal

Biocomp https://www.biocompnepal.com/ is a social enterprise in Lalitpur working in waste management and recycling. Our mission is to introduce sustainable waste management solutions and create new innovative products from recyclables for the local market. Biocomp will divert 9000 tons of plastic from the streets, rivers and municipal waste stream annually. These plastic recycling activities will be branded under the name Reclaim Nepal https://www.reclaim-nepal.com/ 

RIVER+

The RIVER+ project is funded by the World Bank and Parley for the Oceans, as part of the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia (PLEASE) https://www.please-project.org/ project. The aim of the PLEASE project is to catalyse actions that reduce the flow of plastic pollution into South Asian Seas. PLEASE is implemented by South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP). 

The RIVER+ project will reduce the plastic pollution in Nepal by establishing a complete value chain for the collection and recycling of Used Beverage Cartons UBCs, low-grade plastics, and Multi-Layer Plastics (MLP). The project adds value to waste to reduce plastics in the streets and rivers and to reduce the air pollution from burned plastics. Through this project Biocomp creates decent jobs for youth and women in waste management with active gender-responsive programming. The project will manufacture recycled plastic boards from the collected recyclables. The project will collect and process 10 tons of UBC and low- grade plastics per day at the end of the project and up to 25 tons per day, 9000 tons annually in year 3 (post project period). The project start date is February 1st 2024 and will be implemented in a 12 months period. Biocomp’s partners for this project are People in Need (PIN) and Clean Up Nepal. 

Scope of work

The ideal candidate has experience in plastic recycling or the production of composite boards such as plywood. The primary responsibility of the Mechanical Process Engineer within the RIVER+ project is the establishment of the plastic recycling line, maintenance planning, and optimising the production process and workflows. Together with the plastic recycling expert she/he will develop SOP’s for the composite board production process and will continuously work to improve the quality of the boards and optimise the manufacturing process for different types and qualities of raw materials. 

Objective of this role

• To establish and maintain a state-of-the-art plastic recycling facility that operates efficiently, produces high-quality composite boards and adheres to environmental and health and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

Machinery Selection and Procurement

• Update the technical feasibility study
• Develop a functional requirements document for the recycling line
• Select the machinery manufacturer and discuss specific requirements (for example in terms of environmental impact and health and safety aspects)
• Monitor the manufacturing of the machinery to ensure the quality of all components of the recycling line

Plant Layout and Commissioning Recycling plant 

• Develop a well-organized plant layout to optimize the workflow
• Provide support with the design of the factory
• Ensure that safety and environmental standards are incorporated into the design
• Ensure compliance with  local and national regulations regarding waste management and recycling
• Provide support with obtaining the required permits and approvals for the plant
• Monitor the construction of the factory to ensure a seamless installation of the recycling line

Process Optimization and Quality Assurance

• Fine-tune the recycling process for maximum efficiency and yield
• Implement quality control measures to ensure the output meets industry standards
• Perform regular quality checks and adjust processes as needed
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to maintain high standards of workmanship
• Implement a system for continuous improvement based on feedback and evolving technologies.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in plastic recycling

Employee Training

• Train staff on operating machinery, safety protocols, and quality control procedures.
• Foster a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability.

Qualifications and Experience

• Five or more years of experience and can prove the successful development of manufacturing lines under her/his leadership (references required)
• University degree in mechanical process engineering, industrial engineering or another degree which qualifies for this position in combination with the relevant experience.
• Proficient in CAD software for process design
• Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills
• Effective collaboration with Biocomp’s management team
• Strong attention to deadlines and budgetary guidelines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English