How to become a Polymer Technician
Polymer technicians control the operation of machinery that manufactures or finishes plastic, rubber or cablemaking products by injection moulding, blow moulding, hand fabrication, extrusion, hand lay-up, calendering and other processes.
Personal requirements for a Polymer Technician
- Interested in practical and mechanical work
- Able to work as part of a team
- Able to follow written instructions
- Good problem-solving and analytical skills
- Good communication skills
- Aptitude for computerised work.
Duties & Tasks of a Polymer Technician
Polymer technicians may perform the following tasks:
- Determine tasks to be completed and allocate duties to equipment operators
- Talk to management to coordinate activities
- Prepare and measure raw materials
- Feed raw material and processing agents into plant machinery
- Set controls and operate machinery
- Check instruments and equipment to ensure correct operation, noting any abnormal operating conditions
- Take samples for testing, test products and record process data
- Move materials by hand or using a forklift
- Pack products
- Manage customer orders and undertake stock control.
Working conditions for a Polymer Technician
In most plants, the instruments are computer-controlled. Knowledge of chemical and physical processes and equipment performance is very important for optimum production. Safety training and awareness are given high priority. Required protective equipment is provided, such as masks, gloves and ear protection. Shiftwork may be required.
Specializations
Polymer technicians may specialise in the areas of plastics, rubber or cablemaking, and in the type of production process used.
Polymer Technician
Polymer technicians control the operation of machinery that manufactures or finishes plastic, rubber or cablemaking products by injection moulding, blow moulding, hand fabrication, extrusion, hand lay-up, calendering and other processes.
