Machine Operator at Unilever

JOB PURPOSE

• Unilever is the place where you can bring your purpose to life with the work that you do – creating a better business and a better world.  If you are a Machine Operator, then this role is just for you!

WHAT WILL YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES BE:

Safety

• Adheres to Company emergency procedures, safety rules and regulations and eliminates potential SHE hazards in work area.
• Performs behavioral safety observations and corrects unsafe behaviour.

Workplace hazards

• Reduce costs due to waste and minimize impact to health, safety and the environment through working to eliminate waste and through the correct management of waste and hazardous materials.
• Must actively contribute to an eco-efficient environment.

Operational Activities

• Start up/ shut down procedures
• Performs pre-start checks, start-up, and shutdown of machinery according to SOPs.

Operations

• Operates, maintains, and adjusts machinery according to SOPs.
• Monitors and records waste and rework.
• Supports operators during start-ups and abnormal conditions.

Performs size and variant changeovers.

• Provides break relief to ensure continuous production.
• Conducts Autonomous Maintenance tasks up to AM Step 7.
• Makes minor adjustments as part of AM Step 5 activities.
• Inspects the line regularly, resolving or escalating issues.
• Ensures proper handover with incoming operators.

Material Handling

• Monitors material levels and communicates shortages when the Line Operator is unavailable.
• Retrieves materials from storage when levels are low and alerts relevant personnel if stock is unavailable.

Quality

• Performs visual quality checks on materials and products, and takes action when standards are not met.
• Maintains hourly traceability records.
• Logs and resolves issues using EWO and implements corrective actions.
• Conducts all required HACCP quality checks.

Administration

• Assists with PAMCO recording when needed.
• Logs equipment stoppages and breakdowns for troubleshooting and handovers.
• Conducts hourly plant checks and completes log sheets.
• Performs WCM activities and records M1/M4 tags in SAP.
• Supports Line Operator in updating WCM boards.

Engineering

• Performs scheduled autonomous maintenance and minor repairs (e.g. replacing belts, hoses, knives).
• Assists artisans during major breakdowns by following instructions and supporting repair work.

Continous Improvement

• Uses performance metrics to identify and prioritize production losses.
• Monitors line issues and clearly reports problems

Problem Solving

• Supports Engineering in identifying root causes using structured problem-solving tools.
• Leads quick improvement projects (e.g. Kaizens) on the line.
• Initiates first-level problem solving (5 Whys) and proposes improvements; escalates complex issues to the Team Leader.

Leadership and Relationships

• Performs line changeovers.
• Maintains good working relationships with cross-functional teams.
• Proactively escalates issues to Line Operator, Shift Coordinator, or support teams as per procedure.

Physically Ability

• Requires agility to move between workstations and carry loads.
• Needs good hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity for assembly and control tasks.
• Adequate sight and smell are essential for monitoring and quality checks.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUCCEED

Experiences & Qualifications

• Working experience in detergent manufacturing
• Minimum matric NQF 4

Skills

• Problem solving
• Critical Thinking
• Mechanical Aptitude
• Physical Stamina
• Team work
• Adaptability
• Hand tools