Operator at PepsiCo

Overview

• To operate, monitor and maintain production machinery safely and efficiently to ensure the consistent production of high-quality bakery products in accordance with production plans, food safety standards and operational procedures.

Responsibilities

• Machine Operation
• Production Performance
• Quality Assurance
• Equipment Care
• Health, Safety and Environmental Compliance
• Teamwork and Continuous Improvement
• Operate production machinery in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Set up machines for production runs and perform product changeovers.
• Monitor machine performance to ensure efficient and uninterrupted production.
• Adjust machine settings to achieve required product specifications and minimise waste.
• Ensure machinery is started up and shut down safely.
• Achieve daily production targets while maintaining product quality.
• Monitor production output and identify opportunities to improve efficiency.
• Reduce downtime by responding promptly to machine stoppages and escalating technical issues where required.
• Accurately complete production records and operational documentation.
• Conduct routine quality checks throughout the production process.
• Ensure products meet company quality specifications and food safety requirements.
• Identify and isolate non-conforming products and report deviations immediately.
• Maintain compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), HACCP and quality management systems.
• Perform routine equipment inspections before and during operation.
• Carry out basic troubleshooting and first-line maintenance within authorised limits.
• Report mechanical or electrical faults promptly to the maintenance department.
• Maintain equipment in a clean and operational condition.
• Comply with all company health and safety policies and procedures.
• Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report unsafe conditions, incidents and near misses immediately.
• Promote a safe working environment and participate in safety initiatives.

Housekeeping

• Work collaboratively with Production Attendants, Team Leaders and Maintenance teams.
• Assist in training new employees where required.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at improving productivity, quality and safety.
• Communicate operational issues and improvement opportunities effectively.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S principles.
• Clean machinery and workstations according to sanitation schedules.
• Ensure work areas remain organised and free from hazards.

Qualifications

Physical Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
• Higher qualification is Production or Manufacturing will be advantageous
• Minimum of 1–2 years' experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or FMCG environment.
• Experience within a bakery or food manufacturing environment is advantageous.
• Machine operating principles.
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• HACCP and food safety standards.
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting.
• Workplace health and safety requirements.
• Technical aptitude.
• Attention to detail.
• Problem-solving ability.
• Quality orientation.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Good communication skills.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Planning and organisation.
• Adaptability.
• Accountability.
• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and handle materials within safe manual handling guidelines.
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends, public holidays and overtime as required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Machine uptime and availability.
• Production output against target.
• Product quality compliance.
• Waste and scrap reduction.
• Downtime management.
• Food safety and GMP compliance.
• Safety performance.
• Housekeeping standards.
• Accuracy of production documentation.