Marine Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Marine Mechanical Engineer Department: Farming Reports to: Director of Farming Location: Kivu Choice, Rwanda (Kagano, Nyamasheke) Direct Reports: Fleet Mechanic (trucks and other vehicles), Outboards Technician (boat fleet), Cold Chain Technician, Fish Processing Technician Compensation: Commensurate with experience Start Date: As soon as possible About Kivu Choice Kivu Choice is Rwanda’s largest protein producer and one of the fastest-growing aquaculture companies in Africa. Founded in 2022, Kivu Choice is the sister company to Victory Farms, East Africa’s leading aquaculture platform based in Kenya. The company operates a fully vertically integrated aquaculture model, encompassing hatchery operations, cage-based grow-out, processing, distribution, and sales. Kivu Choice is also one of the country’s largest employers with over 700 employees, and plans to grow to 1,200 employees within the next three years, reflecting its strong commitment to job creation and inclusive economic development. Over the next five years, Kivu Choice aims to scale into Africa’s largest and most sustainable protein producer, producing and distributing 30,000 tons of fish annually for the Rwandan market and for export across the region. About the Role Kivu Choice is looking for a Marine Mechanical Engineer to lead and optimize our maintenance operations across the value chain. The role is responsible for overseeing maintenance activities at Kivu Choice, including fish farming production and distribution operations in Rwanda. Reporting to the Director of Farming, the role ensures the reliability and performance of critical assets, including the vehicle fleet, boats, and cold chain equipment. The Marine Mechanical Engineer leads a team of specialized technicians, implements preventive maintenance plans, manages budgets and spare parts, and ensures all work complies with safety and operational standards. This role is essential to minimizing downtime and supporting the smooth, efficient delivery of high-quality fish to market. Key Responsibilities Oversee and coordinate all maintenance operations across three core functions: fleet, boats, and cold chain equipment. Supervise and support three dedicated technicians, each assigned to one of the following areas: Fleet maintenance: Ensure routine servicing, diagnostics, and repairs of trucks and utility vehicles to guarantee safe and efficient transport operations. Boat maintenance: Maintain outboard engines and ensure safe, reliable operation of boats used in production. Cold chain maintenance: Manage the upkeep of all cold chain assets including refrigerated trucks, reefers, ice-making machines, and other electrical installations critical for fish preservation. Plan and implement preventive maintenance schedules to reduce breakdowns, minimize downtime, extend asset lifespan and support uninterrupted operations. Coordinate timely repairs and manage relationships with external service providers when needed. Maintain up