Senior Setter – Second Operations

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Setter to join a high-volume precision manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a skilled Toolmaker with extensive experience in machine setup, precision engineering, and production support. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring efficient production, maintaining quality standards, and mentoring operators within the manufacturing team.

Key Responsibilities

Production Setup & Machine Operation

• Set up, adjust, and troubleshoot specialised gear-cutting machinery and second operations equipment.
• Interpret production layouts and component specifications to prepare machines for production.
• Ensure all machine setups achieve first-off approval before batch production begins.
• Minimise setup scrap and ensure non-conforming components are correctly identified and separated.
• Program machinery where applicable and optimise machine settings for consistent performance.

Tooling & Equipment Maintenance

• Manufacture, assemble, and maintain production tooling, including press tools, milling fixtures, pneumatic tooling, and purpose-built equipment.
• Perform adjustments and maintenance on mechanical production equipment.
• Diagnose machine and tooling issues and implement corrective actions.
• Escalate major maintenance concerns to the relevant supervisor.
• Ensure tooling is correctly labelled, stored, and maintained.
• Request replacement tooling and spare parts when required.

Quality Assurance

• Collect and use calibrated measuring equipment as required.
• Interpret engineering drawings, technical manuals, and machine documentation.
• Submit first-off samples for inspection and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Monitor production quality and make adjustments to maintain specifications.
• Maintain high levels of accuracy and attention to detail throughout production.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Promote and maintain a safe working environment.
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards (5S).
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to reduce setup times, improve efficiency, and optimise production processes.
• Assist in developing standardised work procedures and best practices.

Training & Team Support

• Train, coach, and support machine operators.
• Share technical knowledge and best practices with team members.
• Provide clear communication regarding production status, machine issues, and process improvements.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Red Seal Toolmaker qualification.

Experience

• Minimum of 5–10 years' experience in toolmaking or precision machining.
• Previous experience within a high-volume precision manufacturing environment.
• Extensive experience setting and troubleshooting production machinery.
• Strong understanding of older mechanical gear-cutting machines and machine behaviour under load.
• Experience working with milling machines, presses, pneumatic tooling, and hydraulic equipment.
• Ability to read technical drawings and machine manuals.
• Programming experience (where applicable) will be advantageous.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong mechanical aptitude and diagnostic skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical ability.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Good verbal communication skills.
• Strong decision-making and organisational skills.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Team-oriented with the ability to mentor and develop others.

Key Performance Indicators

• Efficient machine setup within allocated production times.
• High first-off approval rate.
• Consistent product quality with minimal scrap and rework.
• Compliance with safety and housekeeping standards.
• Effective operator training and support.
• Clear communication and timely escalation of production issues.



If you are a highly skilled Toolmaker with extensive production setup experience and enjoy working in a precision manufacturing environment, we'd like to hear from you.