Machine Setter

Shield Chemicals (Pty) Ltd; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Shield Chemicals (Pty) Ltd is seeking a technically skilled operator to ensure efficient, accurate setup and operation of filling lines, labelling machines and related equipment according to production schedules, quality standards and safety requirements.

You will coordinate with production and maintenance, prepare for batch changes, perform machine adjustments, and work with Quality to ensure product integrity and traceability.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric required; technical qualification advantageous.
• Experience operating or setting pneumatic filling machines preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with fault-finding ability.
• Understanding of manufacturing production processes.
• Basic knowledge of quality control principles.
• Ability to read and interpret production documentation.
• Excellent mechanical problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• High level of responsibility and accountability.

Responsibilities

• Plan daily production with the Production Team Leader/Supervisor and confirm batch priorities.
• Prepare in advance for the next scheduled batch changeover.
• Verify availability of all required components, packaging materials, labels, caps, and raw materials prior to setup.
• Coordinate with Stores and Maintenance to prevent production delays.
• Ensure correct documentation, batch sheets, and specifications are available before setup.
• Set up filling machines according to batch specifications, including correct fill volume and run rate.
• Adjust machine parameters and perform mechanical alignments to meet efficiency targets.
• Work with Quality to ensure correct fill volumes, product integrity, and no contamination.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and daily inspections.
• Respond to line breakdowns and assist Maintenance as needed.
• Maintain a clean, safe, GMP-compliant work environment.

Skills

Grade 12

Mechanical aptitude

Manufacturing processes

Quality control

Production documentation

Mechanical troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Accountability

Education

Grade 12 / Matric

Tools

Pneumatic filling machines

Maintenance tooling

Production drawings

Job description

To ensure efficient, accurate, and safe setup and operation of filling lines, labelling machines and other equipment in accordance with production schedules, quality standards, and safety requirements, while maintaining optimal machine performance and minimizing downtime.

Production Planning & Coordination

• Daily liaison with the Production Team Leader / Supervisor to confirm upcoming batches and production priorities.
• Prepare in advance for the next scheduled batch changeover.
• Verify availability of all required components, packaging materials, labels, caps, and raw materials prior to setup.
• Coordinate with Stores and Maintenance to prevent production delays.
• Ensure correct documentation, batch sheets, and specifications are available before setup.

Machine Setup & Changeovers

• Set up filling machines according to batch specifications, including:
• Correct fill volume
• Required run rate (speed)
• Correct change parts and tooling
• Ensure accurate line changeovers to minimize downtime.
• Adjust machine parameters to meet production efficiency targets.
• Perform mechanical adjustments to ensure proper alignment and functionality.

Quality Control & Compliance

• Work closely with the Quality Department to ensure:
• Correct fill volumes
• Product integrity
• No contamination or cross-mixing
• Conduct and record initial test runs.
• Ensure there are no leaks, underfills, overfills, or sealing defects.
• Confirm line performance meets required capacity and efficiency standards.
• Complete all required quality and production documentation accurately.
• Perform trial runs after setup.
• Verify machine stability and consistent output.
• Make fine adjustments where required before full production release.
• Obtain sign-off prior to full-scale production.

Preventative Maintenance & Machine Care

• Conduct routine preventative maintenance as per the Preventative Maintenance Schedule.
• Perform daily machine inspections before and after shifts.
• Lubricate, clean, and adjust machine components where required.
• Keep machines and surrounding work areas clean and orderly.
• Report potential mechanical issues before failure occurs.

Breakdown Response & Troubleshooting

• Respond immediately to production line breakdowns.
• Diagnose and resolve minor mechanical faults.
• Escalate major issues to Maintenance Department.
• Ensure job card has been created.
• Request and follow up on required spare parts.
• Assist Maintenance Technicians during repairs where required.

Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere strictly to Health & Safety regulations.
• Follow lockout procedures when performing maintenance.
• Maintain a clean and hazard-free work environment.
• Wear required PPE at all times.
• Participate in safety meetings and risk assessments.

Health, Safety & GMP

• Ensure compliance with Occupational Health & Safety regulations.
• Enforce correct PPE usage at all times.
• Ensure housekeeping standards are maintained in accordance with GMP.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Promote a safe and compliant working environment.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Grade 12 / Matric (Technical qualification advantageous)
• Experience operating or setting pneumatic filling machines (preferred)
• Mechanical aptitude and fault-finding ability
• Understanding of production processes in a manufacturing environment
• Basic knowledge of quality control principles
• Ability to read and interpret production documentation
• Strong mechanical problem-solving skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• High level of responsibility and accountability