Production Technician

Company Description

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place. 

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.  

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

Job Description

About the Role
We are seeking a versatile and technically skilled Production Technician to support the manufacturing of cut paper swabs and other laboratory-based production activities. This role involves operating automated production equipment, performing quality inspections, carrying out basic mechanical troubleshooting, and supporting component assembly and calibrant preparation activities. The successful candidate will work on a shift basis and rotate across multiple production functions according to operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor automated machinery used in swab production, including material loading, machine operation, quality inspection, and product packing.
• Perform first-line troubleshooting and basic machine maintenance, including blade changes, alignment adjustments, feed corrections, and resolution of machine errors.
• Accurately record production outputs, quality results, and operational data.
• Support laboratory-based production activities, including component assembly, calibrant preparation, handling, and labeling of parts used in test kits.
• Maintain inventory accuracy and traceability of raw materials, ensuring proper storage and adherence to quality and safety requirements.
• Rotate between production areas and tasks based on business and operational needs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on enhancing production efficiency, quality, and workplace safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and operational requirements.

Qualifications

Education

• Diploma or equivalent qualification.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience working with automated production machinery is highly preferred.

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues.
• Good organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Comfortable operating machinery and performing manual handling tasks.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles, including Kanban, Cycle Counting, and 5S.
• Basic computer proficiency and ability to maintain production records accurately.

What We Are Looking For

• Hands-on, technically minded individual with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Flexible team player willing to rotate across different production functions.
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Reporting Structure

• No direct reports.

Additional Information

We offer…

Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.

Join us and work for a world-leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website.