Process PET Technician

A leading manufacturer of bespoke packaging solutions for the personal care, household, pharmaceutical, and food & beverage markets is looking for an experienced Process PET Technician to join their dynamic team. This role requires a highly skilled professional with expertise in PET processing, machine setting, and troubleshooting.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Technical Support & Machine Maintenance:

• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues related to machines, moulds, and production equipment.
• Ensure a thorough understanding of PET processing, including material feeding, drying, injection moulding, reheat stretch blow moulding, and injection blow moulding.
• Conduct fault analysis and troubleshooting to resolve product quality and processing issues, mould defects, and machine malfunctions (mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical).
• Develop and implement maintenance schedules and checklists to ensure machine reliability.
• Document and maintain records of maintenance activities.
• Manage spare parts inventory and coordinate procurement as needed.

2. Machine Setting & Process Optimization:

• Develop, adjust, and document machine settings for optimal performance and efficiency.
• Ensure machines are set correctly for each production run.
• Conduct process improvements to optimize cycle times and product quality.
• If necessary for troubleshooting, safely operate machines with bypassed safety switches while ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

3. Production Coordination & Communication:

• Work closely with Maintenance & Production Managers to coordinate machine availability and maintenance scheduling.
• Communicate production concerns, technical issues, and job progress to relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain strong collaboration with internal teams (QC, Production, and Maintenance) and external partners (suppliers, toolrooms, and technical teams).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by researching and implementing new techniques or solutions.

4. Quality & Food Safety Compliance:

• Ensure adherence to company quality principles and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Monitor product quality and analyze defects to drive corrective actions.
• Implement and comply with the Food Safety Management System (FSMS).
• Report any food safety hazards or quality issues to management.

5. Health & Safety Compliance:

• Enforce health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Report and document accidents, incidents, and near-misses as per company policy.

6. Administrative & Reporting Responsibilities:

• Maintain logs of performed jobs, defect reports, and process adjustments.
• Work with managers to analyze defect trends and improve production outcomes.
• Liaise with external suppliers for technical support, spare parts, and service quotes.
• Assist in budget planning for maintenance and repairs.

7. Self-Development & Continuous Learning:

• Identify personal development areas and take steps to improve skills.
• Stay updated with industry trends, technical advancements, and best practices.
• Engage in continuous learning through supplier interactions, training materials, and technical research.

8. General Responsibilities:

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by management.
• Ensure the team is well-informed and prepared to handle technical tasks independently.
• Lead by example and act as a role model in work ethics and professionalism.

Skills & Qualifications Required:

Education & Experience:

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Bachelor's Degree / Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in PET processing, machine setting, or a related manufacturing environment.

Key Competencies:

• Strong understanding of technical drawings and schematics.
• Installation and maintenance of parts & equipment.
• Fundamentals of fault finding and equipment testing.
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations and compliance standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in PET processing and injection moulding.
• Ability to act decisively and urgently.
• High emotional intelligence and teamwork skills.

Other Special Requirements:

• Passion for advancing in the packaging and PET processing industry with a strong awareness of environmental concerns.

Decision-Making & Accountability:

• Make operational-level decisions while ensuring adherence to maintenance and safety standards.
• Responsible for all technical activities related to machine setup, troubleshooting, and process improvements.
• Ensure timely escalation of critical issues to management.

Communication & Reporting:

• Maintain clear, open communication with colleagues and management.
• Conduct daily shift handovers and production updates to ensure smooth operations.

Why Join Us?

• Work with an industry leader in bespoke packaging solutions.
• Be part of a highly skilled and innovative technical team.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.

If you have a passion for PET processing, machine maintenance, and production efficiency, we want to hear from you! Apply now by submitting your CV.