Our client is seeking a highly skilled and proactive Production Equipment Setter and Maintenance Specialist to join their dynamic team. In this critical role, you will ensure that all production equipment is operating at optimal performance, conduct detailed fault analysis, and perform essential maintenance tasks. This position offers an opportunity to work with advanced production machinery and play a key role in maintaining high production standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Expertise

• Diagnose, report, and resolve all technical issues related to production equipment, including machines, moulds, and auxiliary systems.
• Gain a deep understanding of:
  • Product specifications and quality standards.
  • Production processes such as material feeding, drying, injection moulding, and reheat stretch blow moulding.
  • Technical drawings, including pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric system schematics.
• Conduct fault analysis and problem solving for product quality, mould, or machine malfunctions independently or as part of a team.
• Escalate complex technical issues to the Maintenance and Production Managers when necessary.

Maintenance & Optimization

• Develop and execute detailed maintenance plans, ensuring timely interventions to minimize downtime.
• Lead both internal and supplier-supported maintenance activities in collaboration with the Maintenance and Production Managers.
• Track and document all maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with predefined maintenance schedules.
• Identify and manage spare parts inventory for preventative maintenance and potential equipment breakdown scenarios.

Machine Setting & Process Improvement

• Set production equipment to ensure optimal performance, cycle times, and quality consistency.
• Regularly review and adjust machine settings to optimize process integrity and record new configurations for future reference.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts by researching new techniques and collaborating with internal teams for innovation.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Maintenance and Production Managers to coordinate major maintenance activities and equipment availability.
• Ensure seamless communication with internal departments such as Quality Control and Production, as well as external partners including technical suppliers and the Bowler Plastics Toolroom.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, safety, and innovation across departments.

Health, Safety, and Quality Compliance

• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and quality regulations, maintaining clean and safe working environments for all assigned equipment and areas.
• Enforce Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and contribute to the site's Food Safety Management System (FSMS).
• Report and address any safety hazards, near misses, or incidents.

Self-Development & Leadership

• Continuously develop technical skills and industry knowledge by engaging with suppliers, reading relevant literature, and seeking out innovative solutions.
• Lead by example, demonstrating high levels of professionalism, initiative, and teamwork.
• Guide and support your team in achieving operational excellence, even in your absence.

Requirements:

• Education:

  • Secondary Education: Grade 12 (Matric).
  • Tertiary: N2 certification in Tool, Jig & Die trade theory, with a Red Seal trade test (preferred).

• Experience:

  • At least 5 years of experience in production equipment setting, maintenance, and fault analysis.

• Competencies:

  • Proficient in reading technical drawings and understanding mechanical systems.
  • Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills, especially with hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric systems.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to make quick, informed decisions.
  • High emotional intelligence and a collaborative mindset.