Technical Assistant

We are a custom moulder in rigid plastics. We started supplying rigid plastic

articles to the South African market in 1972. From humble beginnings, the company has grown into

one of the leading players in our industry. This company has been listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange since 1987. Our customers include a wide range of South African national companies.

We are currently in the process of recruiting for a Technical Assistant.  This role is responsible for providing both technical and administrative support to the General Manager. Manage technical tasks, coordinate projects, schedule meetings and handle day to day administrative duties to ensure effective and efficient operation of engineering, process related activities and general assistance.

Responsibilities include:

Technical Support

• Manage technical tasks and assist engineers and maintenance department with process and technical research, design, and development.
• Gather data and perform basic analysis to support production processes and engineering projects. Identify trends, issues, or areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Identify and solve technical and process related issues or problems in engineering projects.
• Contribute to the design and development of new / advancement of products, systems, or technologies.
• Conduct tests and experiments to validate process designs or modifications.

Process Improvement

• Identify arears for improvement in engineering processes and propose solutions.
• Assist in the implementation of new systems or software to enhance productivity.
• Maintain detailed records of work processes, changes and outcomes.

Administrative Support

• Coordinate and manage schedule of the GM including arranging meetings, appointments, and travel.
• Draft and manage emails, letters and other forms of communication on behalf of the GM.
• Prepare agenda, presentations, and other materials for meetings.
• Attend meetings, take minutes, and follow up on action items to ensure completion.
• Organise and maintain digital and physical engineering records, including project files, reports, blueprints, specifications, and diagrams.

Project Coordination

• Monitor project progress and track tasks to keep projects on schedule.
• Assist and coordinating resources such as equipment, tools and materials for projects.
• Serve as the liaison between engineering / maintenance team and other departments or external stakeholders.

Inventory and Resource Management

• Monitor and manage inventory of technical supplies and equipment for projects.
• Order and purchase necessary equipment and materials as directed / required for projects.

Health and Safety

• Ensure and enforce that aspects in area of responsibility conform to Health and safety requirements.
• Maintain housekeeping standards in area of responsibility (e.g. ensure cleanliness assigned machines and areas).
• Work safely and report on safety hazards or issues.
• Report any accidents, incidents and near misses.

Quality

• Apply the company’s quality principles and standards.
• Maintain Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

Food Safety System Certification (FSSC)

• Food safety standards are site specific and at these sites employees should:
• Apply the site’s food safety principles and standards.
• Report any food safety hazards or issues to your Supervisor/Manager.
• Comply to and maintain all GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices) in relation to the company’s Food Safety Management System (FSMS)

Self-development and Growth

• Realistic assessment of own strengths and development areas and undertake actions to address weaknesses.
• Keep abreast of innovation and technical improvements for further self-development and the development of the company.
• Teamwork and co-operation.
• Self-Management.
• Leadership and interpersonal relationship.

General

• Ensure team knows what to do and where to find information if you are not available.
• Inform yourself about and apply the company’s principles and standards.
• Set an example, be a role model for your team and others in the way you work and behave

 

JOB EVALUATION CRITERIA

1. A) Knowledge and Skills

Secondary Education  – Grade 12

Tertiary Education (including Diplomas, Certificates and Degrees) – Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related technical field.

Experience – 2-5 years relevant experience

1. B) Competencies

Knowledge :

• Sound understanding of drawings.
• Fundamentals of fault finding and equipment testing.
• Sound knowledge on H&S and safe working procedures.
• Technical knowledge of process, inclusive of equipment, raw materials, moulds, downstream equipment, run in department.
• Relevant quality system and certification as required.

Skills:

• Administration skills.
• Problem – solving skills.
• Fault – finding skills.
• Installation of parts & related equipment.
• Fault finding and problem solving.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to act decisively and urgently.
• High level of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
• Project management.
• Software proficiency.
• Attention to detail.

Other Special Requirements

• Passionate to progress a career into Packaging for the future with an appreciation of the environment concerns and impacts.

1. C) Decision Making

• Able to make good business aligned judgement decisions at an operational level whilst maintaining maintenance standards, practices & procedures in line with defined and communicated authority and as per instructions.

1. D) Accountability

• Responsible for all activities linked to position as defined.
• Ensure escalation to the appropriate level of authority.

1. E) Communication

• Ensure transparent, responsive, and open communication between colleagues