L1 Plant Operator – Manufacturing (Durban)

About the role

The L1 Plant Operator will work on a non‑pressurised vessel using analogue controls to formulate and pack crop solutions. The role is based at UPL's Durban manufacturing site and focuses on safe handling of hazardous and flammable materials while meeting daily production targets.

Key responsibilities

• Operate analogue‑controlled vessels and semi‑automated filling machines.
• Handle hazardous and flammable chemicals in accordance with safety procedures.
• Oversee packing assistants, optimise workflow and troubleshoot minor issues.
• Monitor process efficiency metrics such as OEE, CCP, RFT and production yields.
• Execute sampling procedures and ensure compliance with batch sheets.
• Request, weigh, reconcile and re‑weigh raw materials.
• Operate a licensed forklift for material movement.
• Record production data accurately, including quantities, quality checks and equipment status.
• Maintain SHEQ and 5S standards throughout the work area.

Required profile

• Experience operating analogue control systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work safely with hazardous and flammable substances.
• Proven capability to supervise and mentor packing staff.
• Strong attention to detail for sampling, weighing and data recording.
• Licensed forklift operator.

Required skills

• Analogue control operation
• Hazardous material handling
• Process efficiency monitoring (OEE, CCP, RFT)
• Sampling procedure execution
• Licensed forklift operation
• Semi‑automated filling machine operation
• Production data recording