Mechanical Technician Packaging (GD Machines)

Packaging Mechanical Technician (GD Machines) – Manufacturing & Maintenance Specialist

Job Purpose

The primary objective of this role is to execute maintenance strategies effectively, utilizing appropriate action plans to ensure optimal equipment performance. The technician will lead and guide the maintenance team in identifying deviations and opportunities for improvements, providing timely solutions. This role encompasses performing technical tasks related to the installation, troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of machinery and systems, guaranteeing reliable and efficient production operations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Policy, Process, & Procedure Oversight

1. Supervise the implementation of departmental policies, procedures, and controls across all maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with relevant procedural, legislative, and QMS (ISO9001) standards.
2. Participate in change management initiatives related to the Quality Management System (QMS), supporting system maintenance and development during planned updates or modifications.

Technical and Operational Responsibilities

1. Maintain production equipment and prepare machines to operate at optimal conditions, aligning with production targets and schedules.
2. Possess extensive hands-on expertise with ACMA GD series machines (GD1001, GD1200, GD2001, GD2002) and GEA Bunch Wrappers used in confectionery packaging lines. Responsible for troubleshooting, preventive, corrective, and breakdown maintenance to ensure high-speed wrapping machinery functions smoothly with minimal downtime.
3. Diagnose and resolve issues such as wrapper jams, feeding faults, misalignments, candy breakage, and rejection failures efficiently.
4. Demonstrate thorough practical knowledge of ACMA GD mechanical components—including cams, gears, belts, and timing mechanisms—and possess basic electrical and pneumatic troubleshooting skills. Familiarity with PLC systems, particularly Siemens S7-1500 and Moeller, is preferred, with the ability to interpret HMI/operator panel alarms, sensors, and actuator responses.
5. Maintain product quality standards, support rapid machine changeovers, and meet production efficiency targets. Ensure adherence to safety, hygiene, and documentation protocols, including maintenance logs, breakdown reports, and CAPA actions.
6. Experience with process lines from Bosch, Hansel / Hansella, and GEA Group, especially forming section dies, is advantageous.

Factory Operations & Maintenance

1. Complete repair and maintenance tasks promptly as assigned by the Maintenance Supervisor.
2. Identify and troubleshoot equipment issues during regular operations.
3. Perform preventive, corrective, and breakdown maintenance activities to minimize downtime.
4. Ensure machines are prepared and maintained according to preventive maintenance plans.
5. Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic faults related to candy manufacturing equipment.

Team Engagement & Safety

1. Execute maintenance activities according to the maintenance plan, assigning tasks to team members accordingly.
2. Adhere strictly to safety rules and procedures during all work activities.
3. Maintain 5S standards within the workshop environment upon supervisor’s instruction.

Budgeting & Cost Control

1. Coordinate with the Maintenance Supervisor/Manager to implement cost-saving initiatives.
2. Monitor and control maintenance expenses effectively.
3. Collaborate with the team to order necessary spare parts and supplies.
4. Follow up with production line leaders regarding repairs and preventive maintenance schedules.

Qualifications & Experience

Required Educational Qualifications

• Three-year college-level diploma or coursework in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
• Additional technical training or courses totaling at least 2 years.

Experience

• 7 to 10 years of proven experience as a technician in the candy or confectionery manufacturing industry, preferably within a food production environment.