Setter Operator Press Department

Job Title: Setter Operator – Press Department

Industry: Precision Engineering / Manufacturing

Employment Type: Full-Time (Shift Work Required)

Location: Maitland, Cape Town

Salary: R28 000-38 000 pm +ben contributions

Role Overview

Our client, a leading precision engineering manufacturer supplying high-specification components, is seeking an experienced Setter Operator to join their Press Department. This role is suited to a technically skilled production professional with strong experience in progressive press machinery, metal stamping, and high-volume manufacturing environments.

The successful candidate will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining press equipment to produce metal components to strict engineering and quality specifications. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain production targets while ensuring compliance with safety and ISO standards.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / Matric.
• Trade Tested Artisan qualification (essential).

Experience & Technical Requirements

• Proven experience as a Press Operator / Setter Operator in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of:

o Hydraulic presses

o Eccentric driven presses

o Punch presses

o Arch presses

o Progressive die tooling and setup

• Ability to troubleshoot press equipment and perform routine maintenance.
• Skilled in operating measuring instruments and inspection gauges.
• Familiar with reading blueprints, drawings, and work instructions.
• Strong understanding of ISO quality standards and production compliance.
• Ability to inspect components on the production floor and correct defects.
• Competent using hand tools for press tool installation and removal.
• Experience working in high-volume, fast-paced production environments.
• Physically able to lift materials, stand for extended periods, and work in noisy or temperature-variable conditions.

Languages

• English and Afrikaans.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Set up and operate punch press machines using press tools, feeders, and supporting equipment.
• Verify correct materials issued before production begins.
• Perform setups according to engineering specifications and job instructions.
• Submit first-off and last-off samples for inspection approval.

Production Monitoring

• Monitor machine performance and adjust settings to maintain production efficiency.
• Ensure hourly production targets are achieved.
• Identify deviations and implement corrective action promptly.
• Maintain accurate production documentation and records