Location: Philippi Western Cape

Purpose of the Role

The PET Process Technician ensures production equipment is properly maintained and correctly set up for operation. The role includes conducting fault analysis in the event of malfunctions or product rejects, while supporting efficient, safe, and high-quality production processes.

Key Responsibilities

Technical

• Identify, report, and resolve technical concerns on assigned production equipment, including machines and moulds.
• Apply deep knowledge of product quality criteria, material feeding/drying, injection moulding, reheat stretch blow moulding, and injection blow moulding.
• Perform mould installations and interpret technical drawings, including assemblies, spare part lists, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical diagrams.
• Conduct independent fault analysis and problem-solving for product quality, processing issues, mould-related problems, and equipment malfunctions.
• Report equipment issues beyond area of responsibility to the Maintenance and Production Managers.

Maintenance & Spares

• Develop and follow preventive maintenance plans and checklists.
• Carry out maintenance personally or with approved service providers, ensuring documentation is up to date.
• Identify spare part requirements for assigned equipment and report to management.
• Analyze spare parts stock versus sourcing needs based on wear likelihood, costs, and lead times.

Machine Setting

• Develop, implement, and document machine settings for production runs.
• Independently set up and verify machine settings.
• Adjust settings during troubleshooting and ensure safe practices, applying appropriate PPE and precautions.

Management & Coordination

• Collaborate with Maintenance and Production Managers to plan machine availability around major maintenance schedules.
• Report progress, provide completion dates, and fulfill assigned technical tasks.
• Maintain strong communication with internal stakeholders (QC, production teams) and external partners (suppliers, toolrooms, technical departments).
• Research, recommend, and implement process improvements.

Administration

• Log completed tasks and analyses defect registers with management to improve production results.
• Support procurement and supplier engagement for spares and services when required.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all responsibilities comply with occupational health and safety requirements.
• Maintain housekeeping standards around assigned equipment.
• Report hazards, incidents, accidents, and near misses promptly.

Food & Product Safety

• Apply and maintain site-specific food safety principles and standards.
• Comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS).
• Report any food safety issues immediately.

Quality

• Uphold company quality standards and GMP practices.

General

• Ensure team members can access critical information in case of absence.
• Demonstrate professionalism and serve as a role model.
• Perform additional duties as required to meet operational needs.

Self-Development & Growth

• Assess strengths and areas for improvement, taking action to address gaps.
• Stay updated on technical innovations, industry trends, and supplier developments.
• Read manuals and relevant technical literature.
• Promote teamwork, cooperation, self-management, and effective interpersonal relationships.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Grade 12 (Matric) required. Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years’ relevant setting experience in a manufacturing environment, with hands-on experience in injection blow/stretch blow moulding processes.

Competencies

• Strong understanding of technical drawings, fault-finding, and equipment testing.
• Knowledge of safe working practices and health & safety compliance.
• Skilled in installation, fault analysis, and problem-solving.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to act decisively under pressure with urgency.
• High emotional intelligence and team collaboration skills
• Proficient in applying quality standards and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Additional Requirements

• Experience with injection blow/stretch blow moulding is essential.
• Strong interest in packaging and PET processing, with awareness of environmental concerns and impacts.