Polymer Technician

**POLYMER TECHNICIAN**

**Purpose**: To control the operation of polymer extrusion machines in order to produce high quality product. Assist with developing tools, processes and testing of new biopolymers.

**Job Description**:

- Work with other team members to maximise productivity and efficiency in the factory area.
- Planning and writing of production plans.
- Operate, carry out die and line changes, start-ups on all manufacturing machinery.
- Assist fellow staff in start-up or line/die changes and relieve where necessary over meal breaks or in times of absenteeism.
- Winding, cutting and packing of end products to a standard that conforms to customers’ requirements and expectations.
- Record production information such as gauge readings, manufacturing times, raw material usage and quality assurance metrics in the appropriate systems.
- Follow all company rules and policies and uphold Health and Safety compliance
- Fix/assist to fix equipment malfunctions as they arise
- Prototype tools and dies for product development projects
- Share knowledge, experience or ideas to increase the efficiency of the entire operation. Contribute to development of new products and processes.
- Test interactions, production techniques and disposal methods of various polymers and additives as part of product development projects.
- Create and maintain logs to document testing phases of product development projects
- Ensure quality checks are performed regularly, accurately and results recorded appropriately.
- Keep work areas clean and organised.

**Required Qualifications**:

- Mechanical/Technical qualification
- Tool design/tool making training required (basic knowledge of using a lathe and/or milling machine).
- Knowledge of basic chemistry
- At least five years of “hands on” experience in a mechanical/technical role.
- Ability to use tool room equipment such as lathes, mills, grinders and precision measurement instruments like micrometers and vernier callipers
- Full, valid driver’s license
- Physical fitness and stamina (long periods of standing and some heavy lifting)
- Good command of the English language (especially comprehension & writing)
- Reliability and good attitude

**Preferred (but not required) qualifications**:

- Forklift license
- Injection moulding experience

**Other general skills wanted**:

- Proven track record of reliability and work ethic
- Mechanical aptitude and strong math skills
- Problem solving and analytical skills
- Willingness and ability to learn new technical skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Strong team player to ensure productivity and efficiency is maintained
- “Can do” attitude, with initiative and pro-active problem-solving skills
- Good eye for details
- Ability to maintain focus / concentration in a fast-paced environment
- Good organizational and time management skills
- Healthy and Safety work practices compliance
- Things to note:_

1. The nature of this business is polymer extrusion and product development.

2. Experience in a polymer extrusion manufacturing environment is highly desirable, while experience in the manufacturing of filaments, tapes and rope will be a value attribute and add to the skillset of the team.

3. The pre-employment selection process includes a drug and alcohol screening test and criminal check.

4. Applicants with work rights in New Zealand will be prioritized.

5. Payrate is negotiable for outstanding applicants

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

**Salary**: $30.00 - $32.00 per hour

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Whangarei, Northland: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (required)

Application Question(s):

- Do you have a mechanical/technical certificate? If yes, kindly state the full title of your certificate.

**Experience**:

- Polymer Technician or equivalent: 5 years (required)

**Language**:

- English (required)

Licence/Certification:

- Driver's License (required)