Description

Job roles/employment outcomes
The Diploma of Polymer Technology is intended for technologists/paraprofessionals who may have worked their way up through plastics, rubber and cablemaking qualifications or who have entered the industry at this level, either from another industry, trade occupation or other relevant background.

The technologist will analyse performance and failure in equipment and products and will assist in the development on new/modified products.

Application
This industry manufactures a wide range of polymer products and components ranging from consumer products to components to be included in other commercial, industrial or consumer products. Much of it is long runs of standard products, but equally it may be short runs/one offs of specialised products. It uses a wide range of natural and synthetic polymers covering thermoplastics as well as thermosetting polymers.

The products from this industry may be components in automobiles, aeroplanes and marine craft as well as domestic appliances and industrial and commercial plant and equipment. It may also be electrical or data cabling. They may equally be consumer products such as paint brushes, tooth brushes, lunch boxes or carry bags.

People with this qualification may be expected to undertake a technologist role typically based in a laboratory or office with possibly some work being conducted on or through the shop floor. They may not be competent to operate production equipment but would be expected to understand the principles behind the relevant production and support processes. They will undertake product or process improvement/development and also complex problem solving.

Pathways into the qualification
This qualification may be accessed by direct entry. Credit for relevant units of competency achieved should be granted towards this qualification for those who have completed PMB40107 Certificate IV in Polymer Processing, or other qualifications relevant to polymer technology.

Units of competency contained within this qualification may be common with other manufacturing qualifications and credit should be granted towards this qualification where competency has already been achieved. Credit should also be granted towards this qualification where competency has been achieved in units of competency contained within relevant skill sets and statements of attainment.

The units of competency in this qualification reflect competencies which are practiced within the industry and recognition of prior learning (RPL) should be granted where there is sufficient evidence of competency from work-based experience.

Pathways from the qualification
Further qualification pathways from this qualification include PMB60107 Advanced Diploma of Polymer Technology

Additional qualification advice
MSA51108 Diploma of Competitive Manufacturing is available for those who need a more generalist qualification covering the application of good manufacturing practice and lean principles.

Licensing considerations
There are no specific licences that relate to this qualification. However, units of competency in this qualification may provide the underpinning knowledge and skills required for various licences. Local regulations should be checked for details.