People working in the tissue converting sector are involved in making the paper tissue that's used in many things - from disposable nappies to wrapping paper and toilet paper. Wood-based tissue starts out as a fluffed-up pulp. In the converting process, it is rewound onto different types of roller to produce various thicknesses, widths and grades.
You are most likely to be employed in one of these jobs:
REELHAND
A reelhand prepares large reels of tissue to go into the converting machines.
OPERATIONS ASSISTANT
Helps the machine operators and is often responsible for quality checks to ensure that product specifications are met.
PACKER
Packages the finished product for storage and distribution. May drive a forklift to move pallets of product.
WAREHOUSE / DESPATCH PERSON
Manages the receipt and storage of finished product. Keeps track of stock in the warehouse and monitors that orders are met.
MACHINE OPERATOR
Operates tissue converting machinery.
Many employers offer training plans to further your development in the industry. These are managed by FITEC and may be delivered on-the-job and / or through Polytechnics or Private Training Enterprises (PTE's).
Firstly you may have to work through an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) introductory programme. You will also receive training for the job that you are doing. This training is the first stage of the Level 2 National Certificate in Pulp and Paper.
For specific qualification information, look in National Qualifications on this website.
Level 2 National Certificates
Some employers offer Modern Apprenticeships. You could be eligible for a Modern Apprenticeship if:
- You are 16 to 21 years old when you start
- You meet the entry requirements for the industry
- You are ready to work towards a National Certificate at Level 3 or 4.
- Once you have completed Level 2, you can go on to other levels (whether or not you are in a Modern Apprenticeship), such as the Level 3 National Certificate.
As part of the programme, your employer commits to your Modern Apprenticeship, making sure that your training happens and helping with the cost. FITEC also covers some of the cost of the training and makes sure that the highest standards are maintained.
FITEC has Training Advisors who help set up the Modern Apprenticeship by putting your programme and achievement milestones together, then support you through it.
Level 3 National Certificates
Tissue conversion covers the processes and systems involved in producing consumer tissue products from bulk tissue reels. People credited with a Level 3 Certificate can demonstrate many practical skills in their area in the conversion plant.
MACHINE OPERATOR
Responsible for the efficient running of the converting machines, and ensuring product quality and quantity are met.
MACHINE SETTER
Changes the set-up of the converting machines for making different products.
Because of the specialised nature of the roles in the tissue converting sector, you will usually start as an assistant operator in your chosen strand. Over time, with more experience and qualifications, you may be able to progress to operator, senior operator, or team leader. You may also learn a number a jobs within a team. The next level of qualification is Level 4.
Level 4 National Certificates
The Level 4 qualification builds on your skills as an experienced industry operator and prepares you for a role in leadership and cotnrol of the conversion processes.
PROCESS TECHNICIANS
Specialist monitoring of processes for quality and environmental compliance and ongoing improvement and adjustment of product and equipment.
TEAM OR CREW LEADERS
Leads a process team. Co-ordinates the activities of an area to ensure efficient operation and that product specifications are understood and met. May be responsible for training and health and safety. Often responsible for planning and co-ordinating maintenance requirements for their area.
PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR OR MANAGERS
Responsible for all aspects of the plant operation, including product quality and quantity. Often also responsible for training, health and safety and environmental issues. In addition they ensure that machines are set up to produce the required grades.
OPERATIONS OR SITE MANAGERS
Responsible for all aspects of the business including financial management, quality control, training, health and safety, and workforce development.
Level 5 Diploma in Wood Manufacturing
This qualification is designed for senior operational people in the wood processing industries (solid wood processing, wood panels manufacturing, or pulp and paper manufacturing). It is also open to school leavers and university graduates who can meet the entry requirements. Whatever aspect of wood processing you're in, the course will give you the skills and knowledge to optimise production processes, contribute to the technical development of wood-based businesses, and play a role in the development of operational staff.
This qualification covers excellence in wood based production, the impact of wood characteristics on product and process quality, and features of New Zealand's wood based industries. In addition there are a range of units covering business management skills.
After completing the Diploma in Wood Manufacturing, you may choose to continue your training by going on to a university degree. The Diploma may earn you some credits towards your degree, however this depends on the programme and is up to the University.