Cocoa Processing and machinery consultant

Project Overview:

AlManaa Cocoa Factory (under Ragheb Trading & Services) is setting up a greenfield cocoa bean processing facility in Qatar with an initial capacity of 1,100–1,500 MT/year (~5 MT/day). We are seeking an experienced Cocoa Processing / Confectionery Machinery Specialist to accompany our executive management on a technical audit and evaluation visit to machine manufacturers in China in November 2026.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Technical Factory Audit: Evaluate candidate machinery manufacturers in China regarding manufacturing quality, engineering standards, SS304/SS316 food-grade compliance, and hydraulic pressing capabilities.

2. Process & Equipment Review: Verify liquor grinding and ball mill specifications to guarantee target fineness (15 to 25 microns / 200-mesh), as well as cake pulverizing, butter extraction, and conching performance.

3. Automation & Industry 4.0 Check: Audit Siemens/Schneider PLC systems, SCADA integration, smart sensor accuracy, and remote diagnostic readiness.

4. Vendor Negotiation Support: Assist in technical negotiations, review equipment bill of materials (BOM), spare parts list, and utility consumption profiles (kW, air, water).

5. Final Audit Report: Provide a concise technical assessment report recommending the optimal manufacturer and contractual safeguards.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 10+ years of hands-on experience in cocoa bean processing, cocoa butter extraction, or chocolate machinery engineering.

• Proven experience conducting factory acceptance audits (FAT/Audit) for food processing machinery.

• Fluency in English (Mandarin is a plus).

Duration & Location:

• Location: China (Factory visits) / Remote consultation

• • Duration: 5 to 7 days in November 2026 (plus prep and reporting time).