Junior Mechatronics Technician (Automation & Maintenance)

Our client is searching for a Junior Mechatronics Technician (Automation and Maintenance) to join their team in Samrand .

Role Purpose

• To support the maintenance, fault-finding, and continuous improvement of automated paper converting and packaging machinery by applying mechatronic principles across electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and control systems.
• This is intended as a developmental position with a strong focus on automation, PLC-controlled systems, and digitization.

Key Responsibilities

Maintenance and Fault-Finding

• Assist with electrical and mechanical fault-finding on automated converting and packaging machinery
• Diagnose faults on sensors, actuators, motors, drives, and basic control systems
• Support planned maintenance activities to improve machine reliability and uptime
• Work under supervision on live production equipment in accordance with safety standards

Automation and Control Systems

• Assist with PLC fault diagnosis and basic troubleshooting (read-only and supervised changes)
• Support HMI operation, alarm interpretation, and recipe management
• Assist with drive and servo system monitoring and basic parameter checks
• Participate in machine commissioning, upgrades, and optimization projects

Mechanical and Systems Support

• Assist with mechanical adjustments, alignments, and changeover-related tasks
• Support fitter, millwright, and electrician during complex breakdowns
• Help identify root causes of recurring faults and contribute to corrective actions

Digitization and Continuous Improvement

• Support data collection related to machine performance and downtime
• Assist with documentation of machine logic, settings, and maintenance procedures
• Participate in improvement initiatives related to automation, standardization, and reliability

Safety, Quality s Compliance

• Adhere strictly to electrical and mechanical safety procedures
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment
• Comply with company quality standards and maintenance practices

Minimum Qualifications

• Trade Certificate: Mechatronics
• NQF-aligned trade qualification recognized in South Africa

Requirements

• Basic understanding of:
  • Electrical systems and components
  • Mechanical systems, pneumatics, and motion
  • PLC-controlled machinery
• Strong fault-finding mindset and willingness to learn
• Ability to work methodically under pressure
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Computer literacy and basic technical documentation ability

Advantageous (Not Mandatory)

• Exposure to PLC platforms (e.g. Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider)
• Experience in FMCG, manufacturing, or converting environments
• Basic knowledge of VSDs or servo systems
• OEM or apprenticeship exposure to automated machinery

Other Requirements

• Must be bilingual, English / Afrikaans(both written and verbal).
• Must be physically fit, reliable, and able to work independently or in a team
• Willingness to work nightshift and overtime when required

Personal Attributes

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Safety-conscious and disciplined approach to work
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced production environment

Key Behavioral Attributes

• Curious and eager to develop automation skills
• Disciplined approach to safety and quality
• Systems thinker who understands machine interactions
• Reliable, accountable, and team-oriented

Work Environment

• Automated paper converting and packaging machinery
• Continuous production manufacturing environment
• Exposure to multi-brand OEM equipment