Shima Seiki Knitting Technician

General Overview:

This position supports the Technical Development Manager in all areas of Computer Aided Design (CAD) Shima Seiki programming, and knitting machine maintenance across both our local and off-shore facilities. The role combines technical development, product innovation, and hands-on machine support to set up, adjust, and maintain industrial textile machines to ensure smooth sampling, production, and ongoing capability growth within the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Machine Setup and Adjustment: Set up, adjust, and maintain industrial Shima Seiki Flat Knitting and Whole Garment machinery for optimal production of knitted textiles.

• Technical Specifications: Study drawings, sample sheets, and technical specifications to determine suitable raw materials, methods, sequence of operations, and precise machine settings for new developments.

• Pattern Mechanisms: Prepare, develop, and program CAD pattern mechanisms to control the operation of Shima Seiki textile machines used to knit and shape fabric.

• Machine Operation & Control: Set guides, stops, and other operational controls on textile machines, carrying out technical modifications to existing knit programs as required.

• Fault Diagnosis & Maintenance: Diagnose mechanical faults and perform operational and preventative maintenance on Shima Seiki machines, both locally and at off-shore facilities.

• Mechanical Repair: Overhaul and repair mechanical parts on knitting machines, including troubleshooting production issues and managing the ordering of spare parts.

• Quality Assurance: Monitor sample and production progress, checking assembled and knitted textile parts for accuracy, clearance, and fit against design specifications.

• On-site Equipment Installation: Travel to off-shore facilities to erect, configure, and install machines and equipment on-site, providing specialized technical training to production staff.

• Production Liaison: Collaborate with the Sales & Development team on new product concepts within machine capabilities, and liaise with Production/Warehouse staff to locate raw materials and assist with cutting patterns and grading.

• Professional Development: Undertake periodic training in Japan to learn new programming methods, technical operational maintenance procedures, and industry developments.

Skills & Experience Required:

• An AQF Certificate III with at least two years of on-the-job training, an AQF Certificate IV, or at least three years of relevant industry experience working as a Textile Machine Mechanic.

• One year full time experience as a Textile Machine Mechanic.

• Demonstrated hands-on technical experience with Shima Seiki flat knitting machinery maintenance and mechanical repair.

• Proficiency in CAD Shima Seiki programming and pattern mechanisms.