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.