Operator – Primary Packing (Number of positions: 04)

Announcement Number: DB/05/2025/PD012
Position Title: Operator – Primary Packing (Number of positions: 04)
Opening Period: 05/05/2025 – 05/12/2025
Series/Grade: L (2)
Salary: Competitive
Who May Apply: All Interested Applicants
Duration Appointment: Indefinite, subject to successful completion of probationary period
Supervisory Position: None

Job Summary:

The Primary Packing Operator is responsible for executing the initial packaging operations for pharmaceutical products, including blister packing, strip packing and bottle filling in accordance with approved Batch Packaging Records (BPRs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). The role involves operating packaging machinery, loading packaging materials, performing in-process checks for sealing, labeling and coding accuracy and ensuring proper documentation of packaging activities. The operator is expected to maintain line cleanliness, assist with equipment changeovers, and promptly report any deviations or equipment malfunctions. The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of pharmaceutical packaging operations, attention to detail, and experience working in a regulated production environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Operate primary packaging machinery including blister packing, bottle filling, sealing and strip packing machines.
2. Load packaging materials (e.g., PVC, aluminum foil, bottles, caps, desiccants) onto machines in accordance with production instructions.
3. Monitor machine performance and adjust settings to maintain packaging quality and efficiency.
4. Conduct visual inspection of packed units for correct sealing, coding, labeling and product integrity.
5. Document all operations in-process checks and packaging quantities in the batch packaging records (BPRs).
6. Assist in line clearance, cleaning and setup for different products or formats.
7. Report any machine faults, packaging defects or deviations to the line supervisor promptly.
8. Follow hygiene, gowning and safety protocols while working in classified packaging areas.
9. Ensure proper handling and segregation of rejected or damaged units according to SOPs.
10. Support implementation of GMP, productivity and continuous improvement initiatives on the packaging line.

Academic Qualifications:

Minimum of Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE). A certificate or diploma in Industrial Technology, Packaging, or a related technical field is an added advantage.

Experience and Competencies:

1. Minimum of 4–5 years of hands-on experience in pharmaceutical primary packing of oral solid dosage manufacturing.
2. Strong technical understanding of tablet compression machinery, tooling and product parameters.
3. Familiarity with cGMP, equipment cleaning validation and documentation requirements.
4. Ability to interpret technical drawings, BMRs and operate within regulated production environments.
5. Good mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
6. Experience in working within cross-functional production and quality teams.