Job Details
- Position: Injector Operator
- Company: Grain Field Chickens (A subsidiary of VKB Agriculture (Pty) Ltd)
- Department: Production / Operations
- Location: Reitz, Free State, South Africa
- Industry: FMCG / Poultry Processing / Food Production
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 26 June 2026
- Posting Date: 19 June 2026
Job Description
The Injector Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining injector machinery used in the poultry production process. The role ensures that production targets, quality standards, food safety requirements, and operational procedures are consistently achieved. The incumbent is responsible for machine setup, calibration, operation, inspection, troubleshooting, and ensuring efficient production flow within the abattoir environment.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation
- Operate injector machines according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Set up injector machines before production starts.
- Ensure machines are correctly calibrated and cleaned prior to operation.
- Monitor machine performance throughout the production cycle.
- Adjust machine settings such as speed and operating parameters as required.
Production Activities
- Feed brine and other required raw materials into injector machines.
- Ensure continuous and efficient production processes.
- Monitor product quality during operation.
- Maintain production output according to operational requirements.
Inspection and Quality Control
- Conduct visual inspections of products and machine components.
- Perform daily operational tests on injector equipment.
- Identify defects, irregularities, or quality concerns.
- Ensure products meet company quality standards and specifications.
Equipment Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Monitor machine performance and functionality.
- Identify and resolve minor machine faults during production.
- Report major mechanical or technical issues to maintenance personnel or supervisors.
- Ensure machinery remains in good working condition throughout production shifts.
Health, Safety and Compliance
- Adhere to health and safety procedures and company regulations.
- Follow food safety and hygiene standards applicable to poultry processing operations.
- Ensure a clean and safe working environment.
- Comply with operational and quality management procedures.
General Duties
- Support production teams to achieve operational goals.
- Perform additional tasks assigned by supervisors or line management.
- Participate in shift work, overtime, and weekend duties when required.
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
- Grade 12 (Matric) or NQF Level 4 equivalent.
- N2 Mechanical Engineering qualification.
Experience
- 1 to 2 years’ proven experience as a Machine Operator within an FMCG environment.
- Experience operating high-speed production machinery.
- Exposure to food production, manufacturing, poultry processing, or similar environments will be advantageous.
Required Skills and Competencies
Technical Skills
- Understanding of production processes and procedures.
- Ability to operate and monitor industrial machinery.
- Knowledge of machine calibration and operational controls.
- Ability to read and interpret operating manuals and instructions.
- Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Health and Safety Knowledge
- Knowledge of workplace health and safety procedures.
- Understanding of food safety and hygiene requirements.
- Ability to follow operational and safety regulations.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment.
- Ability to follow instructions accurately.
Personal Attributes
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Responsible and reliable work ethic.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet production deadlines.
- Flexible and willing to work overtime, shifts, and weekends.
- Strong commitment to quality and operational excellence.