Sappi Southern Africa

Ngodwana Mill

Softwood Operator (P13)

We are hiring!

At Sappi, we are a leading global provider with a reputation for delivering high-quality sustainable Woodfibre products and solutions for the global markets. We lead through our values centered around safety, integrity, courage, and making smart decisions which we execute with speed. We are seeking unique people who believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive and safe environment.

We’re on the lookout for an experienced Softwood Operator to control the operations of Softwood plant from Softwood Entry Deck to Softwood Chip Pile.

As a Softwood Operator, you will be responsible for:

• Perform pre-operational checks prior to start-up by physical checks, monitoring closed circuit television(CCTV) and SCADA control panel monitors.
• Test the Metal Detector at the beginning of every shift and ensure it is repaired if faulty before starting up to prevent damage to the Chipper.
• Safely start up and shut down plant machinery.
• Monitor plant during operation by physically checking through control room windows, CCTV and Scada control panel monitors.
• Control the feeding of logs to prevent log blockages, misalignment and equipment damage.
• Monitor and remove foreign material such as stones on conveyor system using CCTV monitor to prevent equipment damage.
• Control log debarking operation on Debarker Drums to ensure quality chips.
• Control log chipping operation to prevent/ minimise timber wastage by correct log feeding and timeous Chipper knife changes.
• Identify abnormal/ emergency plant conditions and take corrective action according to Best Operating Procedure(BOP).
• Isolate plant and issue work permits.
• Clear log and bark blockages on conveyor systems.
• Oversee and perform related tasks during knife change.
• Monitor log quality and report deviations to Shift Superintendent.
• Ensure plant is running at optimum state to deliver on daily production and quality targets.
• Monitor chip stacking operation to ensure compliance to FIFO principle and continuous chip supply to customers using CCTV and SCADA monitors.
• Communicate with Shift Superintendent, Screening and GW Operator with regards to abnormal conditions and breakdowns.
• Communicate with Maintenance personnel with regards to Maintenance work and Production plan.
• Communicate with SW Checker and Log Loading Contractor with regards to Production and daily action plans.
• Coach and train new employees within area of responsibility.
• Act in higher position when required and licensed.
• Create plant maintenance notifications (SAP).
• Record plant status and deviations on log book.
• Sign off work permit after work completion and area inspection.

What are we looking for?

• Matric with Maths and Physical Science or N3 Pulp and Paper with Maths and Science
• 06 - 12 months experience in the Woodyard section.

What’s in it for you?

• Opportunity to work within a global organisation that continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world even after 80 years of existence
• Learning and development programmes
• Opportunities to travel (dependent on the role)
• Market-leading leave benefits
• Employee wellbeing benefits

Closing Date: 24 January 2024

How to Apply? Please click on one of the buttons below. If you encounter any issues while applying contact your HR contact.

Feel free to visit our website for further information www.sappi.com

Sappi is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. At Sappi, we encourage and support vaccination.