The manufacturing sector in Taiwan has been flourishing for many years now, especially the electronics and ICT (Information and Communications Technology) industry. To this day, there are many companies hiring factory workers, including overseas Filipinos.
Among these workers are those who are skilled in using different types of machinery. Machine operators, also called “production operators,” play an important role in manufacturing, packaging, and distribution — helping to ensure the company’s efficiency and productivity.
Guide to Applying for Work as a Machine Operator in Taiwan
If you are an experienced machine operator, or if you are keen on training and becoming skilled in this job, read on to learn how you can apply for this position in Taiwanese factories.
Job Description
What are the roles and responsibilities of a machine operator? Here is a general job description:
- Operating different types of machines;
- Controlling and adjusting machine settings;
- Regular inspection and maintenance of machines;
- Troubleshooting and fixing machines; and
- Adhering to safety protocols and minimizing hazards.
Salary and Benefits
The salary of machine operators vary, depending on their skills, experience, and the type of machine used. A quick search online shows the following salary offers from different companies:
- Basic Salary of TWD 26,400 (PHP 49,187) per month for a job that includes operating machines, sorting, and packing products;
- Basic Salary of TWD 28,590 (PHP 53,268) per month for machine operators in a company that manufactures semiconductors.
Aside from getting a basic salary, machine operators can also expect to receive overtime pay and bonuses, along with other benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, accommodation allowance, food allowance, and transportation allowance.
Qualifications
To be eligible for a machine operator position, an applicant must:
- Be at least 20 years old;
- Be a High School / Vocational / College graduate: and
- Have at least one (1) year of work experience.
In addition, companies may have other criteria. Looking at some of the latest job postings, some of these qualifications include:
- Gender (some companies prefer males);
- Age limits (e.g. 20-35 / 25-35 / 25-40 years old);
- Height requirements (e.g. at least 160 cm / 165 cm);
- Weight limit (e.g. not more than 85 kg);
- Physically fit and capable of lifting heavy objects; and
- Other requirements (e.g. good vision, no tattoo, not allergic to chemicals or foul odors).
Requirements
When applying for a machine operator job in Taiwan, applicants need to prepare these requirements:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure);
- Clearance from National Bureau of Investigation (NBI);
- School Diploma with Transcript of Records (TOR);
- Certificate from seminars and trainings;
- Certificate from Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS);
- Latest 2×2 Photo (white background);
- Employment Contract signed by the employer and employee;
- Work Visa issued by the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO);
- Medical Certificate (after health exam in an accredited clinic);
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC); and
- Proof of active memberships with Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, Social Security System (SSS), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
In addition, some recruitment agencies and employers may also ask for the following documents:
- Birth Certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA);
- PSA-issued Marriage Certificate (if married); and
- PSA-issued Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) (for single females).
Procedure
Applying for a machine operator position in Taiwan involves several steps: preparing the resume, finding a job and recruitment agency, preparing documents, attending job interviews, and getting a work permit/work visa.
Preparing the Resume
Make sure that your resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) is update, featuring your educational background, work experience, seminars/training attended, and contact information. It should be clear, presentable, and highlights your skills and achievements.
Finding a Job and Recruitment Agency
These days, most job vacancies are posted online, on the official websites and social media pages of companies and recruitment agencies. Some companies also hold “job fairs” in the Philippines, so take these opportunities to apply for an overseas job.
When applying for a job abroad, you will most likely need to submit your documents to a recruitment agency, which facilitates the hiring process. Be sure to work only with legitimate companies, so that you don’t get scammed or become a victim of human trafficking!
Preparing Necessary Documents
Earlier, we presented a list of documents required for overseas job applications. See to it that you have all of these documents, and that they are all valid and up-to-date! The recruitment agency will send your documents to the prospective employer in Taiwan.
Attending Job Interviews
Other than preparing documents, you should also be ready for job interviews. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be prepared to answer questions about your education, skills, and experience. You can also inquire further about the job, such as salary, benefits, etc.
When you get hired, you’ll be asked to sign a job contract; be sure to read it carefully and make clarifications before you sign. Afterwards, the signed contract will be signed by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taiwan.
Getting a Work Permit and Visa
In Taiwan, your employer will be the one to apply for your work permit on your behalf; this will be issued by the Taiwan Ministry of Labor. Upon arriving in the country, the employer will apply for your work visa, Alien Residence Certificate (ARC) and other important documents.
Tips and Reminders
Are you ready to work in Taiwan? Remember that aside from preparing for your job, you should also be ready for life abroad. To ensure a smooth adjustment and stay, here are some suggestions:
- Go to Work on Time. Punctuality is an important trait in Taiwan, you are expected to report for work regularly and on time!
- Work hard. Diligence and dedication to the job are also essential. Give it your best, and you will have a fulfilling vocation!
- Learn the Language. You don’t have to be an expert communicator, but having a basic grasp of the local language, Mandarin, can help you interact better with the Taiwanese.
- Immerse in the Culture. Learn more about the country’s history, traditions, beliefs, and practices. This can help you better adapt to the local culture.
Taiwan’s manufacturing industry offers plenty of opportunities for skilled workers, including machine operators. If you are interested in applying as a machine operator in this country, just get back to this article and let us guide you!
Meanwhile, aside from machine operators, other common jobs in factories are assembly line workers, quality control inspectors, warehouse and logistics personnel, and more. Check out this article to read more about 8 types of jobs in Taiwanese factories!