Production Manager – Plastic Packaging Manufacturing

Ntice Search Solutions; City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing firm in Southern Johannesburg seeks an experienced Production Manager to oversee production operations in a fast-paced FMCG environment. The ideal candidate will lead the production team, ensuring operational efficiency, cost control, and compliance with quality standards. A minimum of 10 years’ experience in production, including 5 at management level, is required. BSc/BEng in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering preferred.

Qualifications

• BSc/BEng Degree in preferred engineering fields.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in production/manufacturing.
• 5 years at management level.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the production team to achieve performance targets.
• Maintain waste levels below 1.4%.
• Ensure preventative maintenance schedules are met.
• Continuously improve cycle times, productivity, and product quality.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and quality requirements.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Conflict management

Budget management

Problem-solving

Education

BSc/BEng Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering

Job description

Overview

Production Manager – Plastic Packaging Manufacturing
Area: Southern Johannesburg

An established manufacturer of rigid plastic packaging solutions, serving major FMCG and industrial brands across SA is seeking an experienced Production Manager to join their team. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the successful candidate will lead the production function, driving operational efficiency, cost control, and quality standards in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the production team to achieve performance and efficiency targets (minimum 85% efficiency).
• Maintain waste levels below 1.4% and ensure optimal material and master batch usage.
• Ensure preventative maintenance schedules are met and critical spares are always available.
• Continuously improve cycle times, productivity, and product quality.
• Maintain customer satisfaction through zero justified complaints and prompt resolution of issues.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, quality, and OHS requirements.
• Develop and manage the production budget in collaboration with Operations and Finance.
• Drive training, skills development, and succession planning within the department.
• Ensure adherence to HR and IR policies while maintaining high employee engagement and retention.

Requirements

• BSc/BEng Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering (preferred).
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in a production/manufacturing environment, with at least 5 years at management level.
• FMCG manufacturing experience required (plastic or packaging advantageous).
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, interpret data, and drive continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict management skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a high-performance environment.

Please note that only Qualified BSc/BEng Engineers will be shortlisted, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.