Vacancies Available at Sappi

As a Laboratory Analyst(Shift), you will be responsible to:

• Accurately analyse various samples using standard laboratory techniques
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment
• Evaluate the quality of results obtained prior to reporting and take relevant actions on deviations
• Calibrates and verifies the accuracy of all relevant equipment before the commencement of the shift
• Comply with all ISO methods for the test performed
• Testing final product for sale purposes
• Analyse and report special samples requested by the plant
• Enter results into the computer using Laboratory Information System (LIS) software program
• Hand over analytical testing that is in progress to the next analyst
• Accountable for the correct use of PPE, housekeeping, and general safety applicable to tests performed
• Identification, communication and mitigation of risks

What are we looking for?

Relevant Qualifications & Experience

• Matric with Maths and Physical Science/ N3 Pulp and Paper
• Chemistry/ Lab related qualification will be advantageous
• 2 years of Laboratory experience in the Pulp and Paper industry
• Computer Literacy (MS Office)

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As a Senior Business Administrator, you will be responsible for:

• Plan, reconcile, analyse and consolidate annual budgets and forecast for integrated regional forestry operations to ensure targets are achieved.
• Consolidate the budget presentation for verification by the General Manager to ensure accuracy and alignment to business plans and highlight any items that do not align to the plan
• Monitor and report on monthly fixed costs and variable cost expenses against budget to achieve targets and ensure accountability, as well as identification of trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Monitor and track plants orders with the nurseries and plants use efficiency against annual phased plan and budget to ensure delivery and keep Area Manager abreast of progress
• Manage and track tray movement by consolidating monthly tray returns reports from FMs and compare against nursery reports to ensure that trays are regularly returned to enable sowing of seed for future plantings and curb financial loss to Sappi.
• Co-ordinate, consolidate and monitor Capex implementation within limits and budget period to maintain standards and ensure progression
• Complete process for asset disposal and Capex application using electronic CAPEX system for requests to be approved
• Co-ordinate contract negotiations and the Initial “Request for proposal” (IRFP) processes to attain the business requirements
• Facilitate annual and parodic rate negotiations by providing support to the suppliers and service providers in order to empower the stakeholders and ensure business continuity
• Input yearly budget for KZN Forestry Department into SAP to ensure correct management of activities in order to manage costs against budget. Highglight any discprencies to the General Manger.
• Consolidate, analyse quarterly forecasting for Own operations to ensure targets are achieved.
• Monitor and report on monthly fixed costs expenses against budget to achieve targets and ensure accountability.
• Verify forecasts and monthly financial schedules by using SAP reports to report on forestry operations performance for the month. Submit the report to the General Manager for review.
• Ensure that silviculture rates are adjusted annually and uploaded into AIMS and Forcelink.
• Resolve disputes relating to loan book, rates and payment queries reported by the Forestry Managers and service providers. Intiatie the required change as per the agreed outcome.
• Direct the administration process of the KZN Forestry in line with the business functions.
• Complete request for proposal (RFP) for new contracts using e-Cams to ensure compliance
• Manage and ensure correct rates are loaded as per contractor on AIMS andensure job instructions are timeously done by forestry staff
• Reconciliation of allocated seedling transporter account on excel and SAP to ensure that costs are timeously allocated
• Reconciliation of provision accounts for Forestry KZN on excel to ensure costs are balanced annually
• Collate stumpage information for all districts using excel to calculate stumpage on rand per ton on silviculture activity cost per month
• Conduct random contractor employee payslip audits to ensure compliance with minimum wages and other conditions.
• Data capture and management of information utilised in operations for analysing, reporting, costing and budgeting purposes
• Compile monthly silviculture fixed costs reports using SAP to reflect on business activities
• Maintain a monthly scoring system for Forecast and Outstanding orders results per Forestry Managers (FM).
• Compile a monthly report on fires to report statistics to the General Manager and various business units by providing feedback on outcome and highlighting any concerns for their action

What are we looking for?

• Finance/Admin related qualification or NQF 7 qualification
• Minimum of 5 years relevant experience
• Strong computer literacy (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)
• SAP knowledge an advantage  
• Valid Code 08 Drivers license  

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As a Process Engineer, you will be responsible for:

• Processing development and optimisation.
• Managing projects from inception to implementation including commissioning of new equipment.
• Updating, publish and communicate process flow diagrams, process and instrumentation diagrams, functional design specifications and mass and energy balances.
• Updating product specifications for the area and communicate to plant personnel.
• Reviewing start-up and shut down procedures, best operating practices, and training manuals.
• High level trouble shooting.
• Root cause failure analysising and close outs.
• Developing high level process designs. 
• Carrying out and participate in feasibility studies. 
• Leading design review meetings and conduct peer reviews of new designs.
• Creating an understanding of environmental standards and engineer improvements with current and future legislative requirements in mind.

What are we looking for?

• BSc Chemical Engineering Degree.
• At least 5 years’ experience as a Process Engineer in a manufacturing / heavy industry environment.
• Experience in the Pulp & Paper industry would be an advantage.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer is an added advantage.
• SAP experience preferred.

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The main responsibilities of this job are to:

• Coordinate the compilation of the monthly balance sheet, fixed asset, income statement, cash flow and current asset reports.
• Analyse financial statements and obtain explanations for variances from budget owners to include in reports.
• Supervise month-end processes and review results to ensure accuracy of month-end reporting.
• Monitor inter-company transactions and arrange for corrections to be made when errors are identified. Ensure that all cash transfers are duly authorised.
• Maintain the costing bill of materials and ensure that accurate product costing is done.
• Assist with verifying payback (internal rate of return) calculations on CAPEX projects.
• Manage and report on profit improvement plans.
• Authorise the payment of ad hoc invoices to suppliers and services, ensuring that the authority limits are being applied.
• Reconcile all accounts in the general ledger on a monthly basis and action all enquiries timeously.
• Act as custodian of the Hyperion database for the unit.
• Ensure that the business unit complies with regulations related to the Companies Act, Income Tax Act, VAT Act, Customs and Excise and other regulations.
• Liaise with auditors during annual and interim external or internal or tax audits.
• Monitor and control sundry debtors in conjunction with Regional credit control.
• Collate the annual operating income and expense budget for the business unit.
• Collate the annual budget for the business unit including fixed costs, variable costs and capital expenditure based on input and consultation with budget holders.
• Manage weekly and quarterly forecasts.
• Regularly liaise with the regional office Finance department on matters of common interest.
• Ensure that the accounting function maintains professional interactions with external clients.
• Take direct responsibility for the development of direct reports.
• Drive active collaboration with the finance teams in other business units.

What are we looking for?

Relevant Qualifications & Experience

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance or related field
• Relevant certification exams completed (such as CIMA) will be advantageous
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in a financial or costing position within a manufacturing environment
• SAP experience

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As an Environmental  Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Identify, assesses and evaluate the potential environmental risk to Sappi Khulisa through the risk assessment process to recommend mitigatory actions to manage these risks.
• Investigate current impacts of forestry operations on the environment by assessing and analysing audit and assessment information to reduce and minimise these impacts.  
• Direct the implementation of internal and external EIA processes to ensure Environmental Authorisations are obtained for Khulisa activities.
• Conduct internal environmental audits through a standard audit process to identify conformance with environmental policies and procedures.
• Provide technical environmental support in the development of strategic and tactical plans (weeding plans, environmental burning programmes, catchment management plans etc) for Khulisa growers to ensure environmental standards are maintained.
• Provide technical input to EIA's, wetland delineation, weed control, problem animal control, burning of permanently unplanted areas, waste management and any other activity by applying environmental knowledge and expertise to ensure that forestry activities are legally compliant 
• Provide technical environmental support by liaising with managers in preparation for and during external (FSC and PEFC) audits to ensure certification is achieved and maintained.
• Provide technical environmental knowledge to public affairs and assist with publicity by writing and reviewing articles for publication, attending public meetings and representing Sappi Khulisa at public fora and exhibitions etc to keep external stakeholders informed and maintain our environmental license to operate.
• Maintain and promote environmental awareness to internal and external stakeholders through regular consultation and environmental reporting to keep stakeholders informed.
• Participate in government/NGO initiatives by contributing and participating in broader landscape projects that promote Sappi Khulisa (Stewardship, catchment management programmes).
• Provide technical environmental knowledge by contributing to technical working groups to guide the development and implementation of forestry-related regulations and certification standards

What are we looking for?

• An MSc degree  in the natural sciences of Botany, Zoology, or Environmental Management
• Registration as Environmental Assessment Practitioner with Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA)
• Registration with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) advantageous
• 5 years relevant experience
• Valid Driver’s license

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As a Snr Process Controller Fibre Line #3 you will be responsible for:

• Ensure effective startup, shutdown, and rate changes of production equipment.
• Optimize plant operations within raw material and service constraints.
• Monitor section efficiency and enforce Management of Change procedures.
• Identify equipment deviations, report issues, and ensure timely repairs.
• Maintain housekeeping standards and ensure compliance with safety policies.
• Manage human resources for optimal capacity planning and team performance.
• Coach, mentor, and authorize newly licensed and re-licensed operators.
• Oversee incidental, planned shutdowns, and breakdowns per best practices.
• Ensure compliance with maintenance plans, work orders, and system processes.
• Conduct Planned Job Observations and maintain accurate master data feedback.

What are we looking for?

• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering or National Diploma in Pulp and Paper.
• At least 2 years of manufacturing experience in the Pulp and Paper industry.
• Experience with Dissolving Wood Pulp is advantageous.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Execute scheduled and planned maintenance tasks.
• Improve Master data accuracy and assist with work scoping.
• Communicate effectively and report to the Foreman.
• Share knowledge across teams in the plant.
• Obtain work permits according to Sappi policy.
• Select and use appropriate tools for each job.
• Perform tasks according to engineering best practices and complete daily/weekly inspections.
• Comply with SAP processes, SHEQ requirements, and safety policies.

What We’re Looking For:

• Grade 12 (Mathematics & Physical Science) or N3 Engineering.
• Recognised Trade Test Certificate as a Boilermaker.
• Valid Driver’s Licence.
• 2 years post-apprenticeship experience in a heavy engineering environment is advantageous.

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• Are you passionate about Pulp and Paper or Chemical Engineering?
• We’re seeking a motivated Production Intern who has completed their S4 and is looking to pursue a career in either of these fields.

As a Production Intern, you’ll be responsible for:

• Completing section-specific training as per the position requirements within the agreed timeframe
• Undergoing a general and plant-specific induction
• Completing all legal training required for the mill and your designated section
• Maintaining a high standard of housekeeping in the workplace at all times
• Committing to a 2-year structured training programme

What are we looking for?

• S4 qualification or National Diploma in Pulp and Paper or Chemical Engineering
• Preference will be given to applicants within 50 km of Sappi Ngodwana

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As a Customer Services Administrator, you will be responsible for:

• Ensure that bookings, confirmations, amendments and cancellations of sales orders are actioned on SAP.
• Maintain the order book regarding finalising balances and changing orders to different machine and warehouse locations.
• Liaising with the manufacturing planning department for allocations.
• Maintaining customer profiles using the Salesforce system.
• Coordinate the distribution and delivery of customer orders using the Track and Trace system.
• Review customer credit limit availability before finalising distribution.
• Regularly communicate with customers regarding order status reports /stock availability and effectively deal with customer complaints in a professional manner.
• Provide customers with a Certificate of Compliance (COC), invoices and proof of deliveries (POD’s) as and when required.

What are we looking for:

• A Commerce Degree in the relevant field.
• A minimum of 3 years experience in customer services in a business to business environment.
• Good working knowledge of the SAP modules for order capturing, claims, transportation and planning.
• Customer oriented candidate who is willing to work on site during business hours.

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As a Process Relief Operator you will be responsible for:

• Takes and hands over shifts smoothly.
• Operates process/equipment following best practices.
• Completes section-specific tasks as planned.
• Provides relief for operators and fulfills assigned duties.
• Assists Foreman during breakdowns and supervision.
• Records all incidents accurately in the shift logbook.
• Reports breakdowns and faulty equipment to the Foreman.
• Adheres to and ensures compliance with all SHEQ requirements

What are we looking for?

• Matric with Maths and Science or N3 Pulp and Paper.
• National Diploma in Pulp and Paper or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 months experience as a Temp Reliever or Production Intern in Pulp and Paper industry.

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As a Plant Engineer, you will:

• Oversee Maintenance: Ensure the safe and efficient operation of plant equipment, managing maintenance to meet O&M Service Provider standards.
• Lead Technically: Provide engineering leadership and technical expertise to drive operational excellence across the plant.
• Maximize Efficiency: Ensure plant equipment operates at peak performance, meeting design capacity and specifications.
• Monitor Performance: Track critical performance metrics daily, address any deviations, and proactively mitigate risks of unplanned downtime.
• Track Operational History: Oversee the maintenance of historical data, monitoring for long-term deviations that could impact performance.
• Identify Capital Needs: Assess and recommend capital investments to improve production efficiencies and maintain accurate records.
• Generate Reports: Evaluate turbine, generator, and boiler performance, producing detailed monthly performance reports.
• Ensure Compliance: Update and ensure adherence to operational control standards, legal requirements, and OEM specifications.
• Troubleshoot & Problem-Solve: Collaborate with the O&M team to identify issues, develop corrective actions, and foster a problem-solving culture.
• Plan & Audit: Develop short-, medium-, and long-term production and outage plans; conduct audits to ensure effective use of PMs, permits, and CMMS systems.
• Prioritize Safety: Uphold the highest standards of safety, health, and environmental compliance, ensuring adherence to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and company SHEQ policies.

What we're looking for:

• Qualifications: Minimum NQF Level 6 - Diploma and GCC (Factories)

Experience:

• At least 5 years of process experience (Combustion) or utilities experience
• Proven track record of plant operations and maintenance
• Skills & Expertise: Strong technical knowledge, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to operational excellence.