Processing Specialist - Injection Moulding (74609)

Job Description

• A leading plastics manufacturing organisation is seeking an experienced Processing Specialist - Injection Moulding to join their operation. This is a hands-on technical role focused on injection moulding, robotics, process optimisation, mould efficiency and production performance, with a strong emphasis on automation integration, advanced process control and continuous improvement.

• Optimise injection moulding processes, including setup, cycle-time improvements and process parameter optimisation.
• Manage and optimise moulds to maximise efficiency, performance and longevity.
• Optimise material handling and processing techniques to improve production efficiency and consistency.
• Conduct mould, material and process trials, including new tool trials and process validation.
• Lead complex mould changeovers, ensuring accurate setup, correct clamping and minimal downtime.
• Analyse and adjust processing parameters, including temperature, pressure and cooling, to improve product quality and cycle times.
• Conduct root cause analysis on processing defects and implement corrective actions to minimise scrap and improve consistency.
• Work closely with Maintenance on mould and machinery maintenance, preventive maintenance, equipment reliability and the mould maintenance programme.
• Ensure machinery and moulds are effectively maintained, serviced and stored.
• Troubleshoot injection moulding machinery, robotics and automation systems, attending to breakdowns and call-outs when required.
• Optimise robotic systems and automated production cells, including pick-and-place systems, conveyors and part-handling processes.
• Support the integration and troubleshooting of automation controls, PLCs and sensors to improve production efficiency.
• Work with Shift Teams, Team Leaders and Setters to optimise production performance, reduce downtime and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Develop and maintain standardised setup procedures and process documentation to ensure repeatability and consistent production quality.
• Train and develop machine setters, mentoring junior technical staff and promoting best practices.
• Support continuous improvement, R&D and quality initiatives, including cycle-time reduction, scrap minimisation and process reliability.
• Ensure the production of high-quality products in line with company standards, maintaining high standards of housekeeping, safety and compliance with relevant quality procedures.

• Matric / Grade 12.
• Mechanical Engineering, BTech Mechanical / Artisan qualification.
• Mechanical background essential.
• Extensive experience in advanced plastics processing within an injection moulding environment.
• Injection moulding machine setting experience essential.
• In-Mould Labelling (IML) experience essential.
• Robotics experience essential.
• Strong knowledge of polymer technology, extruders and injection moulds.
• Experience in maintenance management, preventive maintenance and machinery troubleshooting.
• Strong technical understanding of mould changeovers, process parameters, cycle-time optimisation and root cause analysis.
• Practical exposure to automated manufacturing systems, robotic programming and integration, with knowledge of PLCs and automation controls.
• Experience with high-cavitation tooling and multi-material moulding would be advantageous.
• Sound knowledge of ISO procedures, quality standards and safe operating practices.
• Strong analytical, logical and problem-solving skills, with a methodical approach to identifying and resolving technical issues.
• Proven ability to train, mentor and develop machine setters and other technical team members.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across all organisational levels and work within a team environment.
• A positive, self-motivated and enthusiastic approach, with a strong focus on operational excellence, continuous improvement and service delivery.
• Willingness to work overtime when operationally required.