Extrusion Machine Operator - Straws

Cape Cup is hiring a full-time Extrusion Machine Operator for their Cape Town facility. The role involves operating and maintaining extrusion machinery to produce biodegradable PLA straws, ensuring product quality and safety standards. Candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in plastic extrusion or a related field, possess strong technical skills, and be safety-conscious. This position requires physical stamina and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Job Type: Full-Time

Industry: Manufacturing & Distribution

About CapeCup

At CapeCup, we envision a world where every product serves a greater purpose, aligning client needs with environmental responsibility. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer experiences, efficient service, and a personal touch that keeps our clients coming back.

The Role

We are seeking a skilled and proactive PLA Straw
Extrusion Operator to join our production team. In this role, you will be
responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining extrusion machinery used
to manufacture biodegradable PLA drinking straws. You will work with precision,
ensure consistent product quality, and uphold the highest safety and
housekeeping standards.

This role is ideal for someone with extrusion or
plastics-processing experience who thrives in a fast‑paced production
environment and takes pride in producing high-quality, sustainable products.

Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation & Process Control
• Set
up, operate, and monitor the complete extrusion line, including the
extruder, cooling tank, haul‑off, and cutting unit.
• Feed
PLA pellets and other bio‑plastic raw materials into the extruder hopper.
• Manage
machine parameters such as temperature, pressure, screw speed, and cooling
rate.
• Ensure
production meets required specifications for diameter, thickness, and
length.
• Perform
and document process checks according to prescribed frequency.
Quality & Production Management
• Lead
line start‑ups and ensure machines are running at standard rates.
• Monitor
product quality throughout production and adjust settings as needed.
• Follow
BOM requirements and adhere strictly to the production schedule.
• Package
finished products at machine rate and perform packaging changeovers.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting
• Perform
minor preventative maintenance and assist with tooling changeovers.
• Identify
and report equipment deficiencies (e.g., worn parts, missing guards,
leaks).
• Troubleshoot
mechanical and process-related issues to minimize downtime.
• Maintain
housekeeping standards and a clean, organized work area.

Safety & Communication
• Work
with a “Safety First” mindset and comply with all plant and safety
policies.
• Use
PPE correctly and adhere to SOPs and health & safety regulations.
• Communicate
key production issues to plant management.
• Assist
in training new team members.
What We’re Looking For
Skills & Qualities of a Successful Operator
• Strong
technical proficiency with extrusion machinery and mechanical systems.
• Exceptional
attention to detail—precision is essential.
• Strong
problem‑solving skills and the ability to react quickly to production
issues.
• Physical
stamina and strength; ability to lift up to 25kg and work on your feet.
• Safety‑conscious,
reliable, and proactive.
Experience & Education
• Minimum
3 years’ experience as an operator in plastic extrusion or a
related manufacturing environment.
• Matric
(Grade 12) or equivalent technical qualification (N2/N3) preferred.
• Hands-on
experience in plastics processing or industrial machinery operation.
• Computer
proficiency (MS Word, Excel).
• Strong
verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability
to work effectively as part of a team and take ownership of tasks.

Assets (Nice-to-Haves)
• Basic
knowledge of plastics processing, tooling, or manufacturing machinery.
• Post-secondary
diploma in electrical, mechanical, or automation fields.