Production Process Machine Operator and Assembler

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Machine Operator and Assembler. A Machine Operator and Assembler operates and monitors and adjusts equipment to manufacture and assemble components/parts to specifications given, using applicable equipment and tools. A qualified learner will be able to: • Plan and prepare for part manufacturing. • Set and adjust equipment. • Operate and monitor equipment to produce parts. • Assemble components/parts to specification. • Inspect and test produced part to specifications.

The National Certificate: Machine Operator and Assembler was developed with the full participation of different manufacturing sectors affected by the occupation, inputs from local manufacturers as well as Further Education and Training Colleges. The development of this qualification will ensure that the training of learners will consistently produce component operators and assemblers that can fully function within the different sectors in different industries. This means that learners are subject to the sectoral regulations and applicable by-laws required for practising within these environments and should be able to move easily between these different sectors. This qualification is critical for the economy in that the qualified learners will play a stronger role within the broad spectrum of industries including the automotive sector where locally manufactured components are supplied to Original Equipment Manufacturers locally and internationally. The producers supply parts to the aftermarket which are used for the ongoing repair and maintenance of machines, vehicles, and parts. The ability to manufacture and supply a broad spectrum of industries, Automotive Manufacturers, and the Aftermarket will result in the further stabilisation of the Manufacturing sector of the South African economy. Having standards and specifications for the operation of equipment and the assembly of components accepted as industry standards and the attainment of world class manufacturing principles will go a long way towards ensuring that South Africa becomes globally competitive. A learner qualified as Machine Operator, and Assembler can work in other related positions dealing with setting, adjustment, and operation of equipment as well as the assembly and packaging of components with all the activities conducted according to approved specifications and with quality, cost and productivity being key outputs. At a higher level, the incumbent could progress with further experience and training to becoming a machine setter.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • Level 1 with Mathematics and Communication.

• Plan and prepare for part manufacturing to initiate production sequence.
• Operate, monitor, set and adjust equipment to produce parts to specification.
• Assemble, inspect and test produced parts/components to conform to specification.