Job Title: Raw Material Inspector

Department: Technical Department

Location: Kapeeka, Nakaseke District, Uganda

Reports to: Technical Manager

Employment Type: Full-time

Role Purpose

The Raw Material Inspector is responsible for performing quality inspections and tests on all incoming raw materials to ensure they meet required specifications and quality standards before being released for production. This role plays a critical part in preventing defective materials from entering the manufacturing process, thereby protecting product quality and production efficiency. The Raw Material Inspector works closely with the Technical Department, production teams, and suppliers to maintain consistent material quality and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Raw Material Inspection & Testing

• Receive and sample all incoming raw materials (including but not limited to clays, feldspar, quartz, talc, kaolin, glazes, pigments, packaging materials, and other production inputs).
• Conduct physical, chemical, and visual inspections according to established test methods and specifications.
• Perform laboratory tests such as particle size analysis, moisture content, plasticity, chemical composition (using XRF, titration, or other equipment), and other relevant quality parameters.
• Record test results accurately and compare them against approved material specifications.
• Segregate and clearly label materials that are accepted, rejected, or held for further evaluation.

2. Quality Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed inspection records, including sampling logs, test results, and non-conformance reports.
• Prepare daily and weekly inspection reports for the Technical Manager, summarising material quality trends and issues.
• Issue non-conformance reports (NCRs) for rejected materials and coordinate with procurement and suppliers for resolution.
• Ensure that all inspection data is properly filed and retrievable for audit purposes.

3. Non-Conformance & Supplier Management

• Identify and report any deviations from quality standards to the Technical Manager.
• Participate in supplier quality assessments and provide feedback on material performance.
• Work with suppliers to resolve quality issues, including follow-up on corrective actions and re-inspection of replacement materials.
• Support the rejection and return process for non-conforming materials.

4. Equipment & Laboratory Maintenance

• Operate and maintain laboratory testing equipment, ensuring they are calibrated and in good working condition.
• Clean and organize the laboratory workspace, ensuring proper disposal of waste materials.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory consumables and reagents, and request replenishment as needed.

5. Compliance & Safety

• Adhere to all safety protocols when handling chemicals, dust, and heavy materials.
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times in the laboratory and production areas.
• Ensure that all testing activities comply with company quality standards and environmental regulations.

6. Continuous Improvement

• Assist in the development and improvement of inspection methods and standards.
• Provide feedback to the Technical Department on material quality trends and potential process improvements.
• Participate in root cause analysis for material-related production issues and implement preventive measures.

Qualifications & Experience

Education:

• College diploma or above in Chemistry, Materials Science, Ceramics, Chemical Engineering, Quality Control, or a related field.
• A Bachelor’s degree is an advantage but not required.

Experience:

• Minimum 1–3 years of experience in raw material inspection, quality control, or laboratory testing, preferably in a manufacturing environment (ceramics, building materials, paints, or related industries).
• Experience using laboratory testing equipment (e.g., balances, sieves, moisture meters, spectrophotometers, XRF) is highly desirable.

Language Requirement (Mandatory):

• Fluent in English (spoken and written) – must be able to understand technical specifications, maintain inspection records, and communicate effectively with internal teams and suppliers.
• Knowledge of local languages (e.g., Luganda) is an advantage.

Technical Skills:

• Basic understanding of physical and chemical testing methods for ceramic or mineral raw materials.
• Ability to read and interpret technical specifications and drawings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data entry, Word for reporting).
• Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is a plus.

Soft Skills:

• Meticulous attention to detail – must ensure accuracy in sampling, testing, and recording.
• Strong sense of responsibility – ability to reject non-conforming materials without bias.
• Good communication skills – to report findings clearly and collaborate with suppliers and internal teams.
• Organizational skills – to manage multiple samples and maintain orderly records.
• Problem-solving attitude – to investigate root causes of quality deviations.
• Physically fit – able to handle dusty, heavy, or chemical materials with proper safety precautions.

Other Requirements:

• Willingness to work in a factory/laboratory environment, including occasional exposure to dust and noise.
• Ability to work shifts as required by production schedules.
• Prior work experience in Uganda is desirable.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic technical environment.
• Training on testing equipment and quality control techniques.
• Career advancement opportunities within the Technical Department.
• A supportive and safety-conscious workplace.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send their CV and a cover letter to [jobs-ug@twyfordtile.com] with the subject line “Raw Material Inspector – Uganda”. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.