Machine Technician (Botany)

DEFY DESIGN Full time | Botany, Inner South Sydney | 3-month probation | $75K
- 95k + Super ABOUT US At Defy Design we're focused on transforming Australia's plastic waste into useful, beautiful products. We only manufacture using recycled plastic — and we do everything under one roof. From design to recycling to manufacturing. We take locally sourced plastic waste, sort it, clean it, shred it, and turn it into new products. This diverts waste from landfill and gives it a new life, creating a truly circular economy. Our team is a passionate group of creators on a mission to redefine what recycling and manufacturing can look like in Australia. ABOUT THE ROLE We're looking for a hands-on, mechanically minded Machine Technician to keep our growing production operation running at its best. Our factory runs a range of heavy industrial machines — including an injection moulder, pelletising machine, sheet press, wash line, and shredders, all of which are relatively customised for recycled plastic processing. Keeping these running reliably and efficiently is mission-critical to what we do, and at the core of this role. Working with 100% recycled plastic brings unique challenges — our machines handle variable input materials and need to operate in harmony to maintain an efficient circular recycling operation. We need someone who thrives on unconventional problems, enjoys building and modifying equipment, and takes pride in a well-maintained, well-run workshop. Reporting directly to the Technical Head of Engineering, you'll have real ownership and the opportunity to shape how we operate. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
- Loading and changing injection moulding tools with care and precision Treating, cleaning, inspecting, and correctly storing the injection mould tool library — our moulds are high-value assets and their longevity depends on this being done right every time Identifying and escalating any signs of tool wear, damage, or misalignment before they become costly problems
- Developing and maintaining proactive maintenance schedules across all machines — injection moulder, pelletiser, sheet press, wash line, and shredders.
- Diagnosing and resolving mechanical and operational issues quickly and systematically
- Optimising machine performance and implementing process improvements to reduce wear, improve throughput, and extend equipment life
- Collaborating with the Technical Head of Engineering to plan, design, and build bespoke equipment and modifications as our operation scales
- Keeping accurate maintenance records, documentation, and systems for the wider production team
- Operating the forklift and supporting factory logistics as needed
- Maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organised workshop environment
- Lending a hand across the production floor when needed — we're a small team and everyone chips in. MUST HAVES
- Proven experience working with heavy industrial machinery in a workshop or factory setting
- Solid understanding of engineering principles — mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems
- Meticulous attention to detail — this is non-negotiable in everything we build and maintain
- Commitment to protected working practices, always
- Strong written and verbal communication skills — you'll liaise with engineering, production, and design teams
- A proactive, problem-solving mindset with a genuine drive to optimise and improve
- Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same
- Physically fit and comfortable with regular manual handling, including lifting up to 20kg NICE TO HAVES
- Hands-on experience with plastics processing equipment — injection moulding experience in particular is highly regarded A solid understanding of injection mould tools: how to handle, treat, and care for them correctly
- Forklift licence
- Familiarity with plastic processing equipment — sheet presses, pelletisers, wash lines, or shredders
- Experience fabricating or building custom/bespoke equipment
- Interest in materials, sustainability, or the circular economy
- Basic welding, electrical, or PLC knowledge
- A degree in mechanical engineering or similar WHY JOIN DEFY?
- A technically interesting role — you'll solve problems that don't have off-the-shelf answers
- Real ownership over machines, maintenance systems, and process improvements
- Small, collaborative team where your contribution is visible and valued
- Be part of a purpose-driven business doing something genuinely different for Australian manufacturing
- Career pathway with a growing company — bold plans, real momentum
- Friday beers at the local brewery are a regular HOW TO APPLY Send your resume and a brief note on why DEFY interests you to: ****@defydesign.org No agencies please. Apply on Kit Job: kitjobau.com/job/3r2utg