Automation Specialist at The Heineken Company

Key performance areas

First Line Management:

• Provide first line corrective action and troubleshooting for packaging automation systems, to minimise downtime and losses.
• Takes a lead role in programming, fault finding and maintenance of PLC hardware and software and in the development of line data systems systems.
• To adjust the software for an automation system where required, observing the quality standards and always informing the supplier responsible for executing the maintenance contract of the relevant system.
• To advise and support shift technicians in corrective action for packaging automation system failures.
• To provide management information on breakdowns and work order progress via monthly reporting of breakdowns and stoppages.

Preventative Maintenance:

• Ensure reliable operations and availability of packaging automation equipment at Sedibeng Brewery by implementing effective preventative maintenance programmes. 
• Monitor and manage the maintenance and breakdown contract with the external supplier.
• Ensure effective calibration programmes are in place for on line instrumentation. 
• Actively use and assists with the development of the Computerised Maintenance Management System to effectively maintain and manage assets.

Process Optimisation:

• Assist realisation of high line operational performance (OPI), by optimising automated packaging equipment and sequences.
• Participate in TPM improvement teams.
• Enable process optimisation by modifying software and functional descriptions of process automation where required. 

Safety, Health and Environment:

• Ensure safe working practices are observes and safety regulations complied with at all times.
• Identify safety risk factors for packaging automation and set corrective actions for these.
• Coach Brewery staff in safe work practises for automated packaging systems.
• Ensure the department operates within company SHE standards and OHS Act, through continued education and training and obtaining the co-operation and commitment of all staff to observe all safety rules, procedures and processes in order to drive zero accident mentality.

Continuous Improvement:

• Drive improvement processes and set priorities in order to develop, implement and maintain best in class standards and basic conditions.

Documentation:

• Ensure that all instrumentation controls documentation is kept up to date and reports are provided in a timely and accurate manner.
• Maintain all instrumentation and control documentation to the standard required by the quality system.
• Complete monthly reports on performance of automated packaging systems and instrument calibration schedule completion.
• Maintain updated work instructions for automated packaging systems.

Job Requirements

Education

• National Diploma or BTech/BSc in Electrical Engineering, Control Engineering or Process Engineering.

Experience

• Experience in a production or technical environment