Kitchen Equipment Technician at Novotel in Nairobi, Kenya

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    Kitchen Equipment Technician

    NovotelNairobi, Kenya

    Posted

    1 week ago

    Apply by

    28 Aug

    Full Time
    On Site
    Mid
    Food Services, Hospitality & Catering
    Trades & Services

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    Job Description

    Novotel is seeking a Kitchen Equipment Technician to ensure the smooth operation of commercial kitchen equipment through preventive maintenance and prompt repairs. The role involves diagnosing and fixing faults on cooking, refrigeration, dishwashing, and food preparation equipment, as well as maintaining safety and compliance standards. The technician will coordinate with kitchen staff and external contractors to minimize downtime and support banquet operations.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Perform preventive maintenance on commercial kitchen equipment to minimize downtime.
    • Diagnose and repair faults on cooking, refrigeration, dishwashing, and food preparation equipment.
    • Maintain ovens, grills, fryers, steamers, combi ovens, refrigeration units, ice machines, and warewashing equipment.
    • Inspect and maintain kitchen exhaust systems, fans, and grease filtration equipment.
    • Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, gas, and refrigeration-related issues.
    • Assist with the installation, testing, and commissioning of new kitchen equipment.
    • Respond promptly to kitchen equipment breakdowns to minimize disruption to operations.
    • Coordinate with external contractors and equipment manufacturers for specialized repairs when required.
    • Monitor gas systems, safety devices, and kitchen equipment to ensure safe operation.
    • Ensure compliance with HACCP, health and safety, fire safety, and company engineering standards.
    • Maintain accurate maintenance records, work orders, and equipment history using the CMMS system.
    • Assist in managing spare parts inventory and maintenance supplies.
    • Coordinate maintenance activities with the Kitchen team and Chief Engineer.
    • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
    • Support banquet operations, special events, and other operational requirements as needed.

    Required Qualifications

    • Proven experience in kitchen equipment maintenance, building maintenance, or related technical field
    • Strong technical knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and refrigeration systems
    • Hands-on experience troubleshooting and repairing commercial kitchen appliances and equipment
    • Relevant technical certifications HVAC, electrical, appliance repair, or equivalent preferred
    • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to diagnose complex equipment issues
    • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with kitchen staff and management
    • Demonstrated reliability, responsibility, and commitment to maintaining high safety and compliance standards
    • Proficiency in maintaining detailed maintenance records and documentation
    • Physical capability to perform manual work, including lifting, bending, and working in various positions
    • Time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and respond to urgent repair requests
    • Knowledge of food service industry standards and safety regulations
    • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
    • Flexible and adaptable approach to changing operational needs

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Trades & Services

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Interested and qualified? Go to Novotel on jobs.smartrecruiters.com to apply.

    Master the Kitchen's Critical Systems

    This role is about keeping a busy hotel kitchen running without a hitch. Hiring managers will look for hands-on troubleshooting skills and a solid grasp of safety standards.

    1. Highlight your hands-on repair experience: On your CV, list specific equipment you've serviced—ovens, fryers, refrigeration units—and the types of faults you've resolved. Use numbers like 'reduced downtime by 20%' if you have them.

    2. Show your safety and compliance knowledge: Mention your familiarity with HACCP, fire safety, and gas safety regulations. Give an example of how you've ensured compliance in a previous role.

    3. Prepare to discuss your diagnostic process: Be ready to walk through how you troubleshoot a complex issue, from initial assessment to root cause. Interviewers want to see a logical, methodical approach.

    4. Emphasize your CMMS proficiency: If you've used a computerized maintenance management system, highlight it. If not, show willingness to learn and give examples of how you've kept detailed maintenance logs.

    5. Demonstrate your teamwork and communication: This role involves coordinating with kitchen staff and external contractors. Share a story where you effectively communicated a technical issue to a non-technical audience.

    6. Show your flexibility for urgent repairs: Kitchens have peak hours and unexpected breakdowns. Talk about times you've responded to urgent calls and prioritized tasks under pressure.

    7. Understand the hospitality environment: Research Novotel's standards and the demands of hotel operations. Mention how you'd support banquet events and maintain equipment during high-volume periods.

    8. Be ready for a practical test: Some interviews include a hands-on assessment or a technical quiz. Review common faults in kitchen equipment and practice explaining your repair steps clearly.

    CareerSasa Safety Alert: Never pay employers or agencies for interviews, training, or job placement. Does a job request payment? Report it immediately using the "Flag" button. While CareerSasa vets job postings thoroughly, always verify opportunities independently.
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    Tags

    kitchen equipment
    preventive maintenance
    refrigeration
    electrical
    HVAC