Chocolate Maker - from bean to bar

Company Description Mers Chocolate is a specialty chocolate producer dedicated to crafting high-quality chocolate from bean to bar. The company focuses on sourcing fine cacao, managing each step of production with care, and delivering distinctive flavors and textures. Mers Chocolate values craftsmanship, food safety, and consistency, and encourages continuous learning and innovation in chocolate-making techniques. Team members are supported with clear processes and standards to ensure exceptional products and a positive, collaborative work environment. Role Description This is a full-time, on-site Chocolate Maker role based in Abu Dhabi, responsible for managing the entire bean-to-bar production process. Day-to-day work includes sorting and roasting cacao beans, winnowing and grinding nibs, refining and conching chocolate, and handling tempering, molding, and demolding. The role involves monitoring quality at each stage, performing routine tastings, maintaining equipment, and following strict hygiene and safety procedures. The Chocolate Maker will assist in packaging, labeling, and organizing finished products, as well as supporting inventory management for raw materials and supplies. Collaboration with the wider team on new recipes, process improvements, and production planning is expected, along with accurate record-keeping for batches and compliance. Qualifications - Practical experience or strong interest in chocolate-making including chocolate bars, bon bons, spreads, dragees and other chocolate products. - Knowledge of basic food science concepts related to cacao, fermentation, roasting, and crystallization, or willingness to learn and apply technical guidelines. - Commitment to food safety, hygiene standards, and quality control, including accurate measurement, documentation, and adherence to SOPs. - Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity for tasks such as tempering, molding, and handling delicate products. - Ability to work on-site in Abu Dhabi in a physically active environment, including lifting moderate weights, standing for extended periods, and operating machinery safely. - Effective communication and teamwork skills, with a collaborative attitude and readiness to follow instructions and provide feedback. - Basic numeracy and organizational skills for tracking batches, managing inventory, and maintaining production schedules. - Previous experience in a food manufacturing setting or a culinary qualification is an advantage; training in chocolate or cacao processing is a plus.