Packaging Technician

About the role

The Packaging Technician will lead maintenance activities on high‑speed, high‑volume packaging machinery at the Maidstone Mill. The role ensures safety, quality, delivery, cost control and team morale while meeting OEE and output targets.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate mechanical and electrical maintenance for packaging equipment.
• Execute repairs during production to maintain continuous flow.
• Develop and implement maintenance programs for new equipment.
• Maintain DCS/PLC systems, calibrate instruments and repair control gear.
• Improve and automate existing instrumentation networks.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, OSH, HSEQ, FSSC 22000 and South African legislation.
• Perform weekly standby duties on a rotational shift basis.

Required profile

• Grade 12 or N3 with a relevant Trade Test Certificate.
• Minimum 5 years production maintenance experience, including at least 3 years in FMCG high‑volume packaging.
• Experience supervising a high‑speed packaging line is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of health, safety and labour legislation.
• Leadership ability and good communication skills.
• Resilience to work under pressure and maintain high standards.

Required skills

• Mechanical maintenance of packaging machinery.
• Electrical maintenance of high‑speed equipment.
• DCS/PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Instrument calibration and control gear repair.
• Instrumentation hardware and software management.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMP, ISO standards and OHS Act compliance.
• FSSC 22000 practice.