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Plastics Manufacturing Machine Minder Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-714208
Trade occupationYes
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications3

Occupation overview

Prepares, sets up and runs and monitors plastics manufacturing machinery and equipment to produce plastics products through moulding or extrusion processes.

What does a Plastics Manufacturing Machine Minder do?

A Plastics Manufacturing Machine Minder prepares, sets up, operates and monitors machinery used to make plastic products through moulding or extrusion. The work may include setting plastic production machines, fitting or setting dies and moulds, and watching the production process to keep the machinery operating as intended.

Specialisations

Plastic Production Machine SetterPlastics Die FitterPlastics Die SetterPlastics Mould Setter

How to become a Plastics Manufacturing Machine Minder in South Africa

  1. Build a useful school foundation in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Mechanical Technology and Engineering Graphics and Design.
  2. Consider the National Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing at NQF level 2 as a relevant training pathway.
  3. Consider the Occupational Certificate: Plastics Manufacturing Machine Operator at NQF level 3 as a relevant training pathway.
  4. For work involving die-cutting equipment, consider the Occupational Certificate: Die Cutting Machine Minder at NQF level 3.
  5. Look for practical opportunities in plastics manufacturing and develop experience with moulding or extrusion machinery under appropriate supervision.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

This is a machine-based plastics manufacturing career, with related work in machine setting, die fitting and mould setting. The listed qualifications provide relevant training pathways, but confirm current qualification, provider and assessment requirements with SAQA, the relevant quality council or an accredited provider before enrolling.

Useful school subjects

  • Mathematics
  • Physical Sciences
  • Mechanical Technology
  • Engineering Graphics and Design

Skills that may help

  • Setting up plastics manufacturing machinery
  • Operating moulding and extrusion equipment
  • Monitoring machinery during production
  • Understanding machine dies and moulds
  • Following production procedures
  • Careful observation and practical problem-solving

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.
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